AHMADIYYA BULLETIN
March -April 2019: (Aman/Shahadat) www.ahmadiyyabulletin.org
Relocation of Markaz to Islamabad
Friday Sermons National Peace Symposium Waqfe Nau Ijtemas Summaries of recent Friday Address by Huzoor Aqdas at Addresses by Huzoor Aqdas at Sermons from Baitul Futuh the 16th Peace Symposium the boys and girls events
Ramadan Blessings Jamia Convocation AUXILIARY NEWS Sermon of summary on this Award ceremony of graduates News features from Ansar blesssed month from UK, Germany and Canada and Majlis‐e‐Khuddam UK In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious Ever Merciful
18: National Peace Symposium
Summary of keynote address delivered by Huzoor Aqdas at the 16th National Peace Symposium held at Baitul Futuh.
AMIR UK Mr Rafiq Ahmed Hayat
MISSIONARY IN-CHARGE Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed
NIGRAN Mansoor Ahmed Shah
MANAGER Mohammed Arshad Ahmedi
CHIEF EDITOR Waleed Ahmad
ENGLISH BOARD Ahad Bhunno Abid Ahmad Dabir Bhatti 32: Jamia Convocation DESIGN: Tanveer Khokhar
URDU BOARD 35: WAQFE-NAU IJTEMA Azhar Mani Waqfe Nau Ijtemas for the Latif Ahmed Shaikh Mubarik Siddiqi girls and boys took place on Rana Abdul Razzaq Khan the 6th and 7th April at Wahidullah Javed Baitul Futuh. Highlight of DESIGN: each day was the inspiring Azhar Mani address by Huzoor Aqdas.
PROOFREADERS: Afzal Rabbani Rana Abdul Razzaq Khan Zafar Qureshi Javed Mirza
ADVERTISING MANAGER Daud Khan How to contact the Ahmadiyya Bulletin DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Sheikh Tahir Ahmad By post: [email protected] or phone 07737 921 Ahmadiyya Bulletin, Bait ul Futuh 181 London Road, 723 Morden SM4 5PT Text: NR BULLETIN 3 5 29 IAAAE Event The Holy Qur’an, Summary of Friday Sermon: Report on the 15th Hadith and writings of From 11th Jan 2019 to Symposium of the the Promised Messiah 15th March 2019 International Association of (peace be upon him) Ahmadi Architects Europe and summary of address by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V to 42 the delegates UK News 42 – Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) Day 44 – Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) Day 46 – Annual dinner – TI College Old Students Association UK 47 – PAAMA National Ijtema 2019 47 – Peterborough Vigil 47 – Mosque Open Day in Huddersfield 48 – Hartlepool Mosque Open Day 49 – Mosque visits to Baitul Futuh 58 51 – Effects of Fasting study Question & Answer 51 – Visit to Baitul Futuh How do you explain 52 – European Football Tournament that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, whom you 47 42 believe to be the Promised Messiah, when he is not Jesus son of Mary? 47 62 54 Harnessing the Benefits of Ramadan Extracts fom an earlier Semon by Huzoor Aqdas on how best to derive maximum benefit during the blessed period of Ramadan 60 62 Now ONLINE! Childrens Pages Ansar News The Ahmadiyya Bulletin can Ameen ceremony with Round up of various Tabligh now be accessed online at Huzoor Aqdas, stories activities of Majlis‐e‐ http://ahmadiyyabulletin.org/ and puzzles Ansarullah across the UK. www.LoveForAllHatredForNone.org Quotation from the Holy Qur’an O ye who believe! Seek help with patience and Prayer, surely, Allah is with the steadfast. And say not of those who are killed in the cause of Allah that they are dead; nay, they are living, only you perceive not. And We will try you with something of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth and lives, and fruits; but give glad tidings to the patient, who, when a misfortune overtakes them, say, ‘Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.’ (Al-Baqarah, 2:154-157) Sayings of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) Hazrat Ayesha (Allah be pleased with her) relates that she asked the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) about the plague and he told her that the plague is a torment with which Allah afflicts those He determines, but that He has made it a source of mercy for the believers. If a servant of Allah is afflicted with the plague and stays in his town in a spirit of steadfastness hoping for his due from Allah, realising that only that will happen to him which Allah has determined for him, he will surely have a reward equal to that of a martyr. (Bukhari, from Gardens of Righteous, p. 14, no. 33). Writings of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) If you will adhere to truth and faith, angels will instruct you, heavenly comfort will descend upon you, you will be helped by the Holy Spirit, God will be with you at every step and no one will be able to overcome you. Await the grace of God steadfastly. Listen to abuse and keep silent. Endure being beaten and be steadfast. As far as possible do not resist evil, so that you may be accounted acceptable in heaven. (Tazkaratush Shahadatain, quoted in The Renaissance of Islam, p.93) FRIDAY SERMON 5 FRIDAY SERMONS Summaries of Friday Sermons delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad – Khalifatul Masih V We present a summary of some of Huzoor’s Friday sermons taken with thanks from alislam.org. While every effort has been made to present the salient points as accurately as possible, we take full responsibility for any errors. In order to draw maximum benefit from these sermons, members are advised to listen to them in full on compact disc, audio or video tape. ■ 11 Jan 2019...... 5 ■ 15 Feb 2019...... 11 ■ 18 Jan 2019...... 6 ■ 22 Feb 2019...... 12 ■ 25 Jan 2019...... 8 ■ 1 March 2019...... 14 ■ 1 Feb 2019...... 9 ■ 15 March 2019...... 16 Sermon: 11 January 2019 martyred could be buried. However the camel MEN OF EXCELLENCE would not proceed towards Medina but walk fast After reciting theTashahhud , Ta’awwuz, and Surah towards Uhud instead. At this, Hazrat Hind went to Al‐Fatihah, Huzoor stated, Hazrat Khallad Bin ’Amr the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon Bin Jamu’ Ansari participated at Badr along with his him) who said that the camel had been assigned. father Hazrat ’Amr Bin Jamu’ and his brothers He asked, Hazrat Mu‘az, Hazrat Abu Aiman and Hazrat Mu‘awwaz. “Did your husband say anything before he went On the occasion of Uhud his mother, Hazrat Hind to fight.” carried his body with that of her husband and her brother on a camel after they were martyred. She replied, Hazrat Ayesha (Allah be pleased with her) left her home with some women of Medina in order to “When Amr was about to set off for Uhud, he acquire information about the battle of Uhud. turned towards the Qibla and said ‘O Allah! Do When she enquired from Hazrat Hind, she replied not bring me back to my family in a state of ‘the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be disgrace and grant me martyrdom.’” upon him) was fine and after him, all difficulties are easy’, and recited the verse which translates: Upon this, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “this was the very reason ‘And Allah turned back the disbelievers in their the camel was not moving.” He added, rage; they gained no good. And Allah sufficed the believers in their fight. And Allah is “O Hind! Since the time of your brother’s Powerful, Mighty.’ martyrdom, the angels have gathered around him waiting for instructions about his burial.” She was taking the camel to Medina where the Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 6 FRIDAY SERMON The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be Aqabah is situated between Makkah and Mina. upon him) stayed there until the burial was The literal meaning of Aqabah is an elevated completed and stated, mountainous pass. Whilst departing from Makkah, these twelve Muslim converts requested for a “O Hind! Amr bin Jumu, your son Khalad and teacher and the Prophet (peace and blessings of your brother Abdullah have been gathered Allah be upon him) sent Muṣ‘ab bin Umair (peace together in paradise.” and blessings of Allah be upon him), a very devout young man from the Abdud‐Dar tribe along with Hind requested, them. Hazrat Uqba bin Aamir participated in all the battles alongside the Holy Prophet (peace and “O Messenger of Allah! Please pray for me that blessings of Allah be upon him) including the battles may God Almighty also grant me their of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. He was noticeable in companionship.” his armour on the day of Badr because of his green clothes. He was martyred in 12 Hijri during the Hazrat Uqba bin Aamir was amongst those first six battle of Yamama which took place during the companions from Medinah who accepted Islam in Caliphate of Hazrat Abu Bakr (Allah be pleased with Makkah and took the pledge of allegiance at him). Hazrat Uqba states, Aqabah in the 11th year of prophethood. On departing after the pledge these six said, “I came before the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) with my son “We have been greatly weakened by civil war, who was very young. I said to the Prophet of and there are many disagreements between Allah, ‘May my parents be sacrificed for your us. We shall go to Yathrab and preach Islam to sake, please teach my son those prayers which our brothers. How remarkable would it be that he can recite before God and bless him.’” The Allah the Exalted may gather us again through Holy Prophet stated, “O child! Recite [arabic] you. Then we shall be fit to assist you in every which means ‘O Allah! I seek health from You in way.” the state of being a believer and sincerely pray for compassion and pray for success after The following year five of them returned with attaining virtue.” another seven and pledged their allegiance. This was the second Bai’at of Aqabah. Its wording was, May Allah Almighty continuously elevate the ranks of the Companions. ‘We shall believe in one God, shall not After this Huzoor mentioned the demise of a associate partners with God, shall not steal, pioneering noble Ahmadi woman from America shall not commit adultery or fornication, shall Sister Aaliya Shaheed Sahiba and led her funeral abstain from murder, shall not defame anyone, prayers after Juma. and shall obey you in everything good.’ This Bai‘at served as a foundation stone for Islam Sermon: 18 January 2019 in Madinah. After this MEN OF EXCELLENCE the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be After reciting theTashahhud , Ta’awwuz, and Surah upon him) said, Al‐Fatihah, Huzoor stated Hazrat ’Amir Bin Fuhairah (Allāh be pleased with him) was among the first ‘If you remain true to this pledge in honesty people to accept Islām and before the Holy Prophet and steadfastness then you shall receive (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) entered paradise. But if you show weakness then your Bait Arqam. He used to graze Hazrat Abu Bakr’s matter is with Allah the Exalted, for He shall do (Allāh be pleased with him) sheep at the time of what He wills.’ migration to Medina. Being a slave he suffered much at the hands of the disbelievers. Later, Hazrat Abu Bakr (Allāh be pleased with him) purchased Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 FRIDAY SERMON 7 him out of slavery and set him free. Hazrat ’Amir “There is no need to worry. We are not alone participated in the Battles of Badr and Uhud. He here, the Third One is God with us.” was martyred at Bair‐e‐Maunah at the age of 40. Huzoor narrated the incidents relating to the Hijra Allāh caused the minds of the Makkans to be and how Amir would graze the goats near the cave veiled and they started jesting with the tracker as to Thaur where the Prophet (peace and blessings of how someone could possibly be hiding in such an Allah be upon him) and Hazrat Abu Bakr (Allah be open place. So they returned to Makkah. After two pleased with him) hid for 3 days, so they could get days, the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah fresh milk for the night. Then ’Amir bin Fuhairah and be upon him)’s small party which included Amir a guide joined the two following a path towards the headed for Madinah. Before doing so the Holy coast. The incident with Suraqah was also related Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and how in his pursuit of the party, it constantly turned towards Makkah, the holy city where he had stumbled and fell as soon as he got near the been born and ordained and where his forefathers Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). had lived from the time of Hazrat Ismail (Allāh be He drew lot with his arrows repeatedly which pleased with him), and said with a sorrowful heart, showed an omen he disliked. He then decided not “O city of Mecca, you are dearer to me than every to attack them. When he next got close he said ‘you other place, but your people won’t let me live here.” are at peace’ and met the Holy Prophet informing Hazrat Abu Bakr (Allāh be pleased with him) also him there was a bounty for his head. Huzoor then said with deep sorrow that these people had forced related the incident of migration according to their Prophet out of the city, so they would surely Hazrat Musleh Mau’ud (Allāh be pleased with him). be ruined. Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud (Allāh be pleased In this Huzoor related how when the disbelievers with him) writes that Islām did not become reached the cave Thaur, Hazrat Abu Bakr became victorious through the power of the sword, rather extremely worried. But the Prophet (peace and Islām triumphed through its superior teaching that blessings of Allah be upon him) said, penetrated into the hearts and brought about a moral revolution. One Companion relates that he “Grieve not, for Allāh is with us.” became a Muslim only because of the following Hazrat Abu Bakr (Allah be pleased with him) said, incident. “I fear not for my own life, for I am but a “I was staying as a guest with the people who common man. My only fear, O Prophet of Allāh, had treacherously killed 70 Muslim Qaris. is that if any harm comes to you then When the Muslims were attacked, some of spirituality and religion would be wiped off the them climbed a hill while others remained world.” standing where they were. But since the enemy was stronger in numbers and arms, and the The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be Muslims were without arms, they were killed upon him) said, one by one. In the end only one Companion Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 8 FRIDAY SERMON remained standing. His name was ’Amir bin Haraam bin Malhan were martyred. Fuhairah. It took many of the enemies to bring The two had prayed, him down and one of them thrust a spear into his chest. As the spear penetrated his chest, he ‘O Allah! We do not find anyone beside You, uttered the words, “By the Lord of the Ka’bah, Who could convey our Salam to Your Prophet. I have succeeded!” I was astonished at these Therefore, convey our Salam to him.’ words uttered by a man who was alone, far from his family and kin, facing such a great When Gabriel informed the Holy Prophet (peace calamity, and a spear being thrust in his chest. I and blessings of Allah be upon him) of this, he said wondered if the person was insane. I then may peace be on them. They fought bravely until asked other people why he had uttered those they were martyred. words, and I was told that the Muslims are Hazrat Sulaim bin Qais Ansari was the son of indeed insane, because when they die in the Umme Sulaim bint Khalid and the brother of Khola way of Allāh they believe that He is pleased bint Qais, wife of Hazrat Hamza. He participated in with them and that they have succeeded. all battles, including Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. He These words touched me deeply and I pledged passed away during the caliphate of Hazrat Uthman to visit their centre and learn about their (Allah be pleased with him). religion. Thereafter I went to Medina and Hazrat Thabit bin Tha’laba, son of Umme Unais accepted Islām.” bint Sa’ad, belonged to the tribe of Banu Uzra. His father was Tha’laba also called Al‐Jaz’ due to his Huzoor said that Allāh informed the Holy Prophet courage, strength, determination and passion. (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) about Hazrat Thabit participated in the second pledge of ’Amir’s martyrdom while he was far away. These initiation at Aqabah along with seventy Ansar. He Companions were embodiment of devotion and participated at Badr, Uhud, Ditch, the Treaty of they showed fidelity at every step. May Allāh Hudaybiyyah, Khaibar, the conquest of Makkah and continue to raise their spiritual status. was martyred during the battle of Ta’if. Hazrat Simak bin Sa’ad bin Tha’laba participated Sermon: 25 January 2019 at Badr, with his brother, and at Uhud. MEN OF EXCELLENCE Hazrat Jabir bin Abdullah bin Riyab participated in After reciting theTashahhud , Ta’awwuz, and Surah all battles. He was among the first sixAnsar to have Al‐Fatihah, Huzoor continued his accounts of the accepted Islam in Makkah. While leaving, the six companions who participated at Badr with Hazrat said that civil wars had made them very weak. It is Tufail bin Harith. He belonged to the Quraish and possible that Allah may unite them through Islam also participated at Uhud and Khandaq. He passed and thus Islam started to spread. away in the 32AH aged 70. Hazrat Munzir bin Amr bin Khunaith was from the Hazrat Sulaim bin Amr Ansari belonged to the Banu Sa’adah of the Khazraj. He participated at the Banu Salama of the Khazraj. He performed the Bai’at at Aqaba, at Badr and Uhud. Hazrat Munzir Bai’at along with 70 people at Aqabah. He was literate even before Islam. He was martyred at participated at Badr and martyred at Uhud. Bi’r‐e‐Ma‘ūnah. Gabriel reported to the Holy Hazrat Sulaim bin Harith was from Banu Dinaar of Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) the Khazraj. He participated at Badr and martyred that Hazrat Munzir embraced martyrdom while at Uhud. fighting. It is for this reason he was famous by the Hazrat Sulaim bin Malhan participated at Badr title of‘the one who embraced death’. and Uhud along with his brother Hazrat Haraam. Hazrat Ma’bid bin ‘Ibad’s father was ‘Abaad bin Both were martyred during the incident of Bi’r‐e‐ Qusher. Hazrat Ma’bid belonged to the Banu Salam Ma’unah when the Prophet (peace and blessings of of the Khazraj. His title is Abu Humaisah. He Allah be upon him) was persuaded by Aamir bin participated at Badr and Uhud. Ja’far to send 70 companions to teach his people Hazrat Abi bin Abi Zaghba Ansari was the son of Islam. It was a trap and all, including Sulaim and Sinnan bin Subaiy. He was from the Juheenah tribe. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 FRIDAY SERMON 9 He participated in all battles including Badr, Uhud, his acquaintances who was facing hardship. This is and Ditch. Hazrat Adiyy bin Abi Raghba passed away another example of their fear of Allah. If he had any during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar (Allah be desire, it was to attain the pleasure of God. He pleased with him). passed away in 55 Hijri, during the reign of Ameer Hazrat Rabee’ bin Iyaas belonged to the Banu Muawiyyah. Lawzaan of the Khazraj Ansar. He participated at Badr with his brothers Warqa and Amr. He also Sermon: 1 February 2019 participated in the battle of Uhud. MEN OF EXCELLENCE Hazrat Umair bin Aamir belonged to the Khazraj. Continuing his accounts of Companions who He participated at Badr and Uhud. participated at Badr, Huzoor said, Hazrat Abu Hazrat Sa’ad bin Khaula, the freed slave of Hazrat Huzaifah bin ’Utbah (Allāh be pleased with him) was Hatib bin Abi Balta’ belonged to Banu Kalb. He a tall, handsome man with a beautiful countenance. participated at Badr and was martyred at Uhud. He had accepted Islām before the Holy Prophet Hazrat Abu Sinaan bin Mihsan took part at Badr, (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) came to Uhud and Ditch. He was martyred at the siege of Dar‐e‐Arqam. Hazrat Mirzā Bashir Ahmad writes Banu Quraizah. that Abu Huzaifah belonged to Banu Umayyah and Hazrat Qais bin Al‐Sakan, known as Abu Zaid, his father’s name was ’Utbah bin Rabi’ah. He was belonged to the Banu Adiyy of the Khazraj. He among the chiefs of the Quraish. He was part of the participated at Badr, Uhud and Ditch. He collected two migrations to Abyssinia, accompanied by his parchments of the Qur’an. In 8 AH the Prophet wife Hazrat Sahlah bin Suhail. When the (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) sent him persecution of Muslims intensified, the Holy and Amr bin Aas with a letter to the two sons of Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) Jolandi – Ubaid and Ja’far in Oman, inviting them to instructed Muslims to migrate to Abyssinia saying Islam. They accepted and preached to others. the King of Abyssinia was fair and just. At that time Hazrat Qais was martyred in a battle with the there was a powerful Christian monarchy in Persians on the bridge over the Euphrates during Abyssinia under Najashi which had commercial ties the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar (Allah be pleased with with Arabia. him). Hazrat Abu Huzaifah also participated in the Abul Yasar Ka’ab bin Amr belonged to the Banu expedition of Hazrat ’Abdullah bin Jahsh, a prelude Salama tribe. On the day of Badr he captured Hazrat to Badr. Details are described in Seerat Khatam‐ Abbas. Abul Yasar was slim and 20 years of age, unNabiyyin. During Badr, his father was among the whereas Hazrat Abbas was of heavy build. The Holy disbelievers but the Prophet (peace and blessings of Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) Allah be upon him) stopped him fighting his father enquired how he had overcome Abbas. Abul Yasar and said let someone else do so. His father, uncle, replied an unknown person helped him and brother and nephew were all killed at Badr, but he described that person’s appearance. The Prophet showed great forbearance and submitted to the (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) replied, Will of Allāh offering gratitude for the victory Allāh “Indeed a noble angel has assisted you.” had granted. Abul Yasar followed the instructions of the Hazrat Ayesha (Allah be pleased with her) relates Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) that when the corpses of the disbelievers of Badr about treating the slaves well and said, were being thrown into a pit, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) noticed there ‘I prefer greatly to give my slave an equal share were signs of unhappiness on the face of Hazrat of the wealth of this world, as opposed to Abu Huzaifah since his father was also among the losing my spiritual reward on the day of dead. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of resurrection.’ Allah be upon him) asked whether he was displeased at what was being done to his father’s These individuals had a very high status and were body. Hazrat Abu Huzaifah answered, O Prophet of committed to seek His pleasure. indeed they would Allāh, I have no doubt with regard to Allāh and the crave for it. Abul Yasar cancelled the debt by one of Prophet, but my father was a kind, truthful and wise Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 10 FRIDAY SERMON person. He had his opinions but they were based on while others at 42 or even 45 AH. what he thought was true, there was no ill‐intention Hazrat As’ad bin Yazīd belonged to Banu Zuraik of on his part. This is why I had wished that Allāh may Khazraj. He participated at Badr and Uhud. guide him to Islām before his death, but this did not Hazrat Tamim Bin Ya’ār belonged to the branch of happen, and so he came to this tragic end, which Banu Jidarah of Khazraj. He participated at Badr and saddened me. The Holy Prophet (peace and Uhud. blessings of Allah be upon him) prayed for Hazrat Hazrat Aus bin Thābit bin Munzir was the father of Abu Huzaifah. Hadrat Abu Huzaifah participated in Hazrat Shaddad bin Aus. He belonged to Banu ‘Amr all battles. He was martyred at 53 or 54 at Yamama bin Mālik bin Najjar. He participated in the second during the Khilāfat of Hazrat Abu Bakr (Allah be Bai’at at ‘Aqaba and at Badr and martyred at Uhud. pleased with him). Huzoor (May Allāh be his Helper) Hazrat Thābit bin Khansa belonged to Banu then spoke about a veteran servant of the Jamā‘at, Ghanam bin ‘Adi bin Najjar. He participated at Badr. Professor Sa’ud Ahmad Khan Sahib, who passed Hazrat Aus bin As‐Sāmit was the brother of Hazrat away on 21st January 2019 and led his funeral ’Ubadah and participated at Badr and Uhud. He was prayer in absentia after the Friday prayer.. also a poet. Later, he and Hazrat Shaddad went to live in Jerusalem. He died at Ramla in 34 AH at the Sermon: 8 February 2019 age of 72. MEN OF EXCELLENCE Hazrat Arqam bin Abi Arqam belonged to Banu Huzoor continued with accounts of Companions Makhzum. He was amongst the first to accept Islām. who participated at Badr. He owned a house outside Makkah near mountain Hazrat Abu Mulail Bin Al‐Az’ar belonged to the Safa, which is famous in history as Dar‐e‐Arqam. Aus. He participated at Badr and Uhud. According to This was where Hazrat ’Umar (Allāh be pleased with one account, his brother Hazrat Abu Habib was with him) accepted Islām, after which the number of him in these battles. Muslims rose to 40. Hazrat Arqam participated at Hazrat Anas Bin Mu’az Ansāri belonged to Banu Badr and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah Najjar clan of the Khazraj. He participated at Badr, be upon him) gave him a sword out of the spoils of Uhud and Khandaq. He died during the Khilāfat of war. Once he was appointed to collect Sadaqat. Hazrat Uthman (Allah be pleased with him). In Hazrat Arqam was among the members of Hilful other accounts, he and his brother Hazrat Ubai Fudul. His son relates that he passed away in 53 AH were martyred at Bair‐e‐Maunah. at the age of 83. In keeping with Hazrat Arqam’s Hazrat Abu Shaikh Ubayy Bin Thabith belonged to will, his funeral prayer was led by Hazrat Sa’ad bin Banu ’Adi clan of Khazraj. He was the brother of Abi Waqas and was buried in Jannat‐ulBaqi’. Hazrat Hassan and Aus bin Thābit. He participated Hazrat Basbas Bin ’Amr belonged to Banu Sā’idah at Badr, Uhud and was martyred at Bair‐e‐Maunah. bin Ka’ab of Khazraj. He participated at Badr and According to some accounts, he was martyred at Uhud. Uhud, but other accounts state that it was his Hazrat Tha’labah Bin ’Amr belonged to Banu brother Aus who was martyred at Uhud. Najjar. He participated at Badr. He was among those Hazrat Abu Burdah Bin Nayyār was commonly who destroyed the idols of Banu Salma. He died known by his title Abu Burdah, but his actual name during the Khilāfat of Hazrat ’Umar (Allāh be was Hani. He belonged to Baliy clan of Banu Qazā’a. pleased with him) in the Battle of the Bridge. Some He participated in the second Bai’at of Aqabah. He accounts suggest he died in Medina during the participated at Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. On the day Khilāfat of Hazrat ’Uthman (Allāh be pleased with of the conquest of Makkah, Hazrat Abu Burdah held him). the flag of Banu Hartiha. When he and Hazrat Abu Hazrat Tha’labah Bin Ghanamah belonged to the ’Abs accepted Islām, they broke the idols of Banu Banu Salamah tribe. He was among the 70 Haritha tribe. Hazrat Abu Burdah accompanied Companions who participated in the second Bai’at Hazrat Ali (Allāh be pleased with him) in all his at Aqabah. He participated at Badr, Uhud and was battles. He died during the early years of Amir martyred at Khandaq. According to another Mu’awiyah’s reign. Some place his death at 41 AH account, he was martyred at Khaybar. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 FRIDAY SERMON 11 Hazrat Jabir Bin Khalid belonged to the Banu Dinār Najjar of the Khazraj. He participated at Badr, Uhud and participated at Badr and Uhud. and Khandaq. Hazrat ’Ayesha (Allāh be pleased with Hazrat Harith Bin Nu’oman Umayyah belonged to her) relates that the Holy Prophet (peace and the Aus. He participated at Badr and Uhud. He was blessings of Allah be upon him) held Hazrat the paternal uncle of Hazaraat ’Abdullah bin Jubair Harithah in great esteem. He was very kind towards and Khawwat bin Jubair. his mother and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Hazrat Harith Bin Anas belonged to the Banu Allah be upon him) said that everyone should follow ’Abde Ashhal of Aus. He participated at Badr and his virtuous example. Hazrat Harithah became blind martyred at Uhud. He was among the few in his final years. He tied a rope leading from his companions who stood steadfast on the mountain place of prayer to the door of his house. He would pass alongside Hazrat Abdullah bin Jubair. keep a basket of dates with him, and whenever Hazrat Huraith bin Zaid belonged to the Banu Zaid anyone needy came to his door, he would take of Khazraj tribe. He participated at Uhud. some dates, reach the door with the help of the Hazrat Harith bin As‐Simma belonged to the Banu rope and give to the visitor. His family would ask Najjar and was martyred at Bair‐e‐Maunah. He did why he went to all that trouble? He said because not practically participate at Badr because he was ill the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah upon him) said that helping the needy wards off an be upon him) sent him back to Medina, but, on evil death. Hazrat ’Ayesha (Allāh be pleased with account of his zeal and resolve, he was counted her) relates that on the day of Hunain, the Prophet among those who had participated and was given (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) asked share from the spoils of war. He fought at Uhud and who would keep guard at night. Hazrat Harithah was martyred at Bair‐eMaunah. stood up slowly, because he never hurried with Huzoor prayed that may Allāh continue to elevate anything. Seeing this, the Companions said that the ranks of all the Companions who participated at shyness has spoiled him and on this occasion he Badr. should have gotten up quickly. But the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, Sermon: 15 February 2019 “Do not say that shyness has spoiled him, rather it MEN OF EXCELLENCE would be true to say that shyness has perfected Hazrat Khalid bin Qais belonged to Banu Bayazah of him.” He died during the rule of Amīr Mu’awiyah the Khazraj. His wife’s name was Umm‐e‐Rabi’ī and Hazrat Bashir bin Sa’ad was the brother of Hazrat their son was Abdur Rahman. According to Ibn‐e‐ Simāk. He belonged to the Khazraj. He knew how to Ishaq, he participated in the Second Bai’at of write prior to Islām. He was among the 70 Ansār Aqabah. He participated at Badr and Uhud. who participated in the second Bai’at of Aqabah. In Hazrat Harith bin Khazamah belonged to the 7AH the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be Khazraj. upon him) sent 30 men for the Battle of Fadak. He Hazrat Khunais participated in the second fought valiantly but an enemy sword cut through his migration to Abyssinia. He is counted among the ankle rendering him unconscious. The enemy left first of the Muhajirs. He participated at Badr. Hazrat him for dead. In the evening when he regained Hafsah was the widow of Hazrat Khunais before she consciousness he came to Fadak and stayed at the married the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of house of a Jew for a few days before returning to Allah be upon him). Medina. Seerat Khatam‐un‐Nabiyyīn records that Hazrat Likewise, in 7AH the Holy Prophet (peace and Khunais became ill after Badr and died. According to blessings of Allah be upon him) sent him along with another account, he was wounded at Uhud and 300 men to Yumn and Jabar, where some people of succumbed to these injuries in Medina. The Holy Ghatafān had gathered along with ’Uyainah bin Hisn Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) Al‐fazari and were conspiring against Islām. Hazrat led his funeral prayer and he was buried in Jannat‐ Bashir fought and dispersed them. Hazrat No’uman ul‐Baqī’i next to Hazrat ’Uthman bin Maz’un bin Bashir says, my father gifted me some of his Hazrat Harithah bin No’uman belonged to Banu wealth. My mother Amrah bint Rawāhah said that Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 12 FRIDAY SERMON she would not rest until I requested the Prophet Regarding this prophecy, the Promised Messiah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) to be a (peace be upon him) explains, witness to this bestowal. When my father came for this purpose, he was asked, “Have you given the “In this instance, by the grace and beneficence same to all of your children?” He responded: “No.” of God Almighty, and by virtue of the blessing The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon of the Seal of the Prophets (peace and him) said, “Fear Allāh and treat your children blessings of Allah be upon him), that fairly.” My father took the gift back from me. This Benevolent God accepted this humble one’s incident has also been cited in Sahih Muslim. prayer, and promised to send a soul so holy, Regarding this kind of gift, Hazrat Musleh that its apparent and hidden blessings would Mau’ud (Allāh be pleased with him) says that this spread all over the world.” does not apply to small, everyday things, but (Tabligh‐e‐Risalat) rather to valuable things so that children do not resent one another. Huzoor said, this is a matter The Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) adds related to Fiqh which everyone should keep in that he did not beseech for an ordinary soul but mind when distributing inheritance or bestowing prayed for a sign. Allah responded giving glad gifts. tidings of a glorious son who would attain a long In 12 AH, Hazrat Bashir was martyred fighting life, be extremely intelligent and possess grandeur, under Hazrat Khalid bin Waleed at ’Ainut Tamr. majesty and wealth. Nations would obtain blessings Hazrat Bashir was the first to have pledged Bai’at from him. He would be filled with secular and at the hand of Hazrat Abu Bakr (Allāh be pleased spiritual knowledge. He would be endowed with an with him). This was at the meeting place of Banu extremely profound understanding of the Word of Khazraj in Medina and it was where the first Allah, i.e. the Holy Qur’an. He would utilise his God‐ gathering was held to elect a Khalīfa. given understanding and would serve the Qur’an in At the end of the sermon Huzoor requested the such a magnificent manner that he would enlighten Jamā‘at for prayers in the context of attacks the world. He will be the means of procuring the against Ahmadī homes and shops in Bangladesh as release of those held in bondage; he will be Aalime a result of which some Ahmadīs were injured. Kabab, meaning such universal catastrophes would Huzoor mentioned the sad demise of Siddiqua occur during his lifetime that it will torment the Begum Sahiba of Dunyapur, Pakistan. She was the entire world. His fame will spread to the ends of the mother of Laeeq Ahmad Mushtaq Sahib, earth. Missionary InCharge of Surinam in South America. We are a witness to the fulfilment of universal She was the wife of Sheikh Muzaffar Ahmad Sahib. catastrophes, such as the two World Wars as well as Huzoor led her funeral prayer in absentia after the other calamities. Friday prayer Regarding his education, after completing the recitation of the Qur’an, he enrolled for formal Sermon: 22 February 2019 education. Pir Manzoor Muhammad, taught him THE PROPHECY AND ITS FULFILMENT Urdu. Maulvi Sher ‘Ali Sahib taught him English. He Huzoor said that these days Yaum‐e‐Musleh‐e‐ himself states in great detail that he was a sickly Maud is being commemorated. God foretold about child with several chronic aiments and severe a son who would possess special qualities. This problems with sight, due to trachoma. His eyes prophecy was made on 20th February 1886. This were painful with doctors worried that he would son was born on 12th January 1889, who was lose eyesight. The Promised Messiah (peace be named Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad and to upon him) started to specially pray and keep whom God Almighty bestowed the mantle of voluntary fasts. By Allah’s grace, his eyesight Khilafat after the demise of Hazrat Khalifatul improved but he remained partially sighted in one Masih I (Allah be pleased with him). This prophecy eye. The Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) was about the birth of an extraordinary son who told his teachers to educate him as best they could. would lay the foundations to a spiritual revolution However, the Promised Messiah (peace be upon in the world. him) stressed that he should study the translation Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 FRIDAY SERMON 13 of the Qur’an and Bukhari from Hazrat Maulvi Nur‐ “O my Lord! With my heartfelt anxiousness, I ud‐Din and he should also study medicine. fall at Your threshold and I supplicate to You Despite several school reports showing with all my heart, begging of You to hear my unsatisfactory progress, the Promised Messiah prayer. My Lord! Holy art thou! My people are (peace be upon him) did not force his son to study heading towards ruin, save them from this and remained supportive. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I destruction. If they call themselves Ahmadis, (Allah be pleased with him) was also very how can they ever forge a connection with me supportive and said to Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza until their hearts and their inner self becomes Mahmood Ahmad Sahib, pure?...Thus, O my Lord! Stir your attributes of “Mian! Your health is not well enough that you Rahmaniyyah [the Ever Merciful] and can study yourself. Visit me and I will teach you Raheemiyah [the Most Gracious] and purify in a way which you would only need to listen.” them. Instil within them the passion and spirit of the Companions (ra) so they become anxious His worldly education was effectively next to to serve the faith, and their words and actions nothing and he was taught by God. His speeches, become refined and pure. … O my Lord! Save addresses, writings and exegesis of the Qur’an are a my people from all sorts of trials and grief, testimony to this. This is a great sign of the safeguard them from all kinds of calamities truthfulness of this prophecy. that may befall them and ensure there are Hazrat Musleh Maud delivered his first public great noble people born among them. May speech at the 1906 Jalsa Salana, which gained wide‐ they become a nation that You are pleased acclaim. His spiritual progress was immense, his with and become a community that You have next Jalsa Speech was after the demise of the chosen for Yourself. May they be free from the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) and was full influence of Satan and may the angels of religious knowledge. continuously descend upon them. Bless this Regarding his prayers, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad community both in their worldly endeavours Sadiq Sahib said, and in their faith. Ameen” “I recall that once when Mian Mahmud was approximately 10 years old, he was standing May God Almighty shower His endless Mercy on for prayer in the Aqsa Mosque with the him, the one who spent day and night in spreading Promised Messiah (peace be upon him), and the religion of the Holy Prophet (peace and when he went into prostration, began weeping blessings of Allah be un him) and the mission of his profusely. From an early age, he possessed an Ardent Devotee – the Promised Messiah and Mahdi exceptional relationship of love for God and His (peace be upon him) – and having fulfilled his Messengers.” pledge, he returned to his Lord. May God Almighty enable us to understand and recite this heartfelt Sheikh Ghulam Ahmad Sahib recalled of how he prayer of his, and may we fulfil the rights of being once saw someone deep in fervent prayer. It was an Ahmadi. May God Almighty enable us to do so. Sahibzada Sahib. When he enquired, Sermon: 1 March 2019 “Mian, whatever did you ask from God MEN OF EXCELLENCE today?” He replied, “I have only asked of God Hazrat Khauli Bin Abi Khauli participated in all of the that He should revive Islam before my very battles with Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of eyes.” Allah be upon him). Hazrat Rafe’ Bin al‐Mu’alla. The Holy Prophet That deep desire at such a young age to see the (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) day of Islam’s victory did indeed bear fruit, as God established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat blessed him with the mantle of Khilafat in his youth. Rafe’ and Hazrat Safwan Bin Baidhaa. Both He mentioned his prayer published in “Tasheezul participated at Badr. Azhaan” in 1909, Hazrat Zush‐Shimalain Humair Bin ‘Abdi ‘Amr was also referred to as Zul Yadain because of his abilities Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 14 FRIDAY SERMON of using both hands. His brotherhood was Hazrat Ayyaz bin Zuhai took part in the second established with Yazid Bin Haris. Both were migration to Abyssinia. He participated in all the martyred at Badr. battles. Hazrat Rafe’ Bin Yazid participated in the battles of Rifa bin Amr Ansari took part in the second Bait at Badr and Uhud and was martyred during the Battle Aqabah along with seventy Companions. He of Uhud. participated at Badr and martyred at Uhud. Hazrat Zakwan bin ‘Abd‐i‐Qais’s title was Abu Hazrat Ziyaad bin Amr who was also known as Sabuh. He participated at both Bai’ats at Aqabah. Ibn‐e‐Bishr, participated at Badr. According to He migrated to Makkah while the Holy Prophet another narration, he was from the freed slave of (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was still Banu Saida bin Ka’ab. in Makkah. He was thus called an Ansari Muhajir. Hazrat Saalim bin ‘Umair bin Thabith was from the He participated at Badr and was martyred at Uhud. Banu ‘Amr bin ‘Auf. He participated at the first Bai’at Hazrat Khawad bin Jubair Ansari, sustained an at Aqabah. He was among the Companions who injury from a sharp stone while going to Badr. He could not go to Tabuk because of lack of means. was sent back by the Holy Prophet (peace and These seven came to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) but was still blessings of Allah be upon him) and requested that included in the spoils. He participated in all battles they be given some means of transport. The Holy with the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) be upon him). Hazrat Khawad narrates, replied that “at this time, I have nothing with which I can provide for you to mount on.” They were not “The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be after horses or camels, they were only asking for upon him) visited me once when I was sick. shoes as they were unable to walk to the battlefield After I had fully recovered, he said: ‘O Khawad, barefoot. This is how poor Muslims were! your body has restored to complete health. Hazrat Saraaqah bin Ka’b belonged to the Banu Hence, fulfil your covenant with Allah.’ I stated: Najjaar. He participated in all of battles alongside ‘I have not promised Allah anything’. The Holy the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). him) said: ‘There is not a sick person who does Hazrat Saa’ib bin Maz’oon was amongst the very not take an oath or intends [to do something] first Companions to migrate to Abyssinia. during their time of sickness. (Such a person Hazrat ‘Asim bin Qais participated at Badr and surely says to God Almighty that he will do Uhud. such and such he would grant him good Hazrat Tufail bin Malik bin Khansa took part in the health). Therefore, fulfil your promise with Bai’at at Aqabah and at Badr and Uhud. Allah faithfully by acting on your words.’” Hazrat Tufail bin Nu’man was at the Bai’at‐e‐ Aqabah as well as at Badr. At Uhud he received We should all ponder over and greatly pay thirteen wounds. He was martyred at Khandaq. attention towards it. Hazrat Zahaaq bin ‘Abd A’mr and his brother Hazrat Rabeea bin Aqsam’s title was Abu Zaid. He Nu’man participated at Badr and Uhud. participated at Battles Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. He Hazrat Zahaaq bin Haritha took part at Bai’at of also took part in the Treaty of Hudaibiya and was Aqabah and at Badr. martyred at Khayber. Hazrat Khallad bin Suweid participated at Bai’at‐e‐ Hazrat Rifa’ bin ‘Amr Al‐Jahan, also known as Aqabah and also at Badr, Uhud and the Ditch. In Wadiya bin ‘Amr, participated at Badr and Uhud. the battle with Banu Quraizah, a Jewish lady named Hazrat Zaid bin Wadiya was from the Khazraj. He Bunanah dropped a heavy rock on his head and he took part at Ba’it‐e‐Aqabah, Badr, and was martyred was martyred. at Uhud Hazrat Aus bin Khauli participated in all the battles Hazrat Ribee’ bin Rafi’ was from the Banu ‘Ajlaan alongside the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah and took part at Badr and Uhud. be upon him). He was a ‘Kamileen’ ‐ one who knew Hazrat Zaid bin Muzain participated at Badr and how to write, was an expert in archery and a good Uhud. swimmer. Hazrat Aus bin Khauli relates that he once Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 FRIDAY SERMON 15 presented himself before the Prophet (peace and wrapped around the spathe of a date‐palm.’ blessings of Allah be upon him) who said, He then asked: ‘Where is it located?’ He replied: ‘In the well of Zhi Arwan.’” Hazrat “O Aus! One who adopts humility and Ayesha states, “The Prophet (peace and meekness for the sake of God, He in turn blessings of Allah be upon him) went to the elevates his status. And one who is arrogant, well with some Companions. When he God humiliates him.” returned, he said, ‘O Ayesha, by God! The water of the well had a reddish complexion This indeed is a very important lesson for us all resembling extracts of henna.’” which we should always be mindful of. May God continue to elevate the station of these noble In relation to this narration, Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud Companions. (Allah be pleased with him) states, Sermon: 8 March 2019 “It merely states that Allah the Exalted had THE REALITY OF "MAGIC" ON THE PROPHET informed the Prophet (peace and blessings of (PEACE AND BLESSINGS OF ALLAH BE UPON Allah be upon him) through angels that the HIM). Jews have tried to cast a spell on him. It does Hazrat Qais bin Mihsan Ansari participated at Badr not mean that the Holy Prophet (peace and and Uhud. blessings of Allah be upon him) was affected Hazrat Jubair bin Iyaas participated at Badr. He by the spell in the way people believe spells to belonged to the Banu Zuraiq branch of the Khazraj. work.” According to Hadith, a Jew attempted to cast a magic spell on the Holy Prophet (peace and When Hazrat Ayesha (Allah be pleased with her) blessings of Allah be upon him) by taking his hair, asked the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be tying knots to a comb and placing it in a well, with upon him) if Satan was attached to him, he some dates. It was Hazrat Jubair who took those responded, items out of the well. Hazrat Ayesha (Allah be pleased with her) “Yes. However, God has granted me victory narrates, over Satan to the extent that even my Satan has become a Muslim.” “One night the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) supplicated before God Almighty There is no room to give any credibility to a claim and then again and once again and said, ‘O that a Jew, with the help of his Satan, could cast a Ayesha, God Almighty granted me everything I spell on someone as exalted as the Holy Prophet had supplicated for…..I asked, ‘O Apostle of (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Allah what did you ask for? What has Allah Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib writes, bestowed you with?’ He replied, “Two men came to me and one of them sat near my head “… it is important to note that this incident of and the other near my feet. The one that was sorcery took place after the Treaty of seated near my head said to one who sat near Hudaibiyah………. During this time, the Holy my feet…” or perhaps Hazrat Ayesha states, Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon “Or the one who sat near my feet said to one him) became anxious and worried for those who sat near my head: ‘What is this man, i.e. who were weak of faith. … it impacted him Muhammad, suffering from?’ The other psychologically and he suffered from replied: ‘A spell has been cast on him. The temporary amnesia.” former asked: Who has cast the spell? The latter replied: ‘It was a Jew named Labid bin When the Jews and hypocrites witnessed that the Asim.’ He then asked: ‘What is the thing by Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) which he transmitted its effect?’ The other was unwell, they spread the rumour of casting a replied: ‘Using a comb and by the hair spell on him. When the Prophet (peace and Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 16 FRIDAY SERMON blessings of Allah be upon him) came to know of Sermon: 15 March 2019 this supposed sorcery, he prayed further to Allah … MEN OF EXCELLENCE: THE PROPHET’S (PEACE Allah heard his ardent pleas and manifested the AND BLESSINGS OF ALLAH BE UPON HIM) truth to him in a vision. He was totally saved from MOSQUE this attempted magic. Hazrat Saib Bin Usman participated in the second How could the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings migration to Abyssinia with his father and uncle, of Allah be upon him) fall victim to amnesia? Allah Hazrat Qudamah. He participated in all the battles says, alongside the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). “O Messenger, tell them, ‘I am but a human Hazrat Zamrah Bin ‘Amr Juhni participated at Badr being like yourselves, and subject to all those and martyred at Uhud. laws to which other human beings are subject. Hazrat Sa’ad Bin Suhail fought at Badr and Uhud. Yet, I am also a Prophet of God and have been Hazrat Sa’ad Bin ‘Ubaid participated in all the granted Divine Revelation from God for the battles alongside the Prophet (peace and blessings guidance of mankind.” of Allah be upon him). Hazrat Sa’d bin ‘Ubaid is amongst the four Ansari Once an expert Hindu hypnotist, went to a Companions, who collected the Holy Qur’an during gathering and secretly began to focus his attention the lifetime of the Prophet (peace and blessings of on the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him), to Allah be upon him). He was martyred at influence and humiliate him. … All of a sudden, he of Qadisiyyah in 16 AH. screamed and ran away. He said that when he Hazrat Sahl bin ‘Atiq participated in the second focused his attention on Mirza sahib, he saw a pledge at ‘Aqba along with seventy Ansar. He fought fearsome lion, ready to pounce. Hazrat Mirza Bashir at Badr and Uhud. He and his brother Suhail bin Ahmad Sahib writes, Rafi’ (ra) owned the piece of land on which Masjid Nabawi was constructed. “If the servant (the Promised Messiah) holds When the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah such a status that God Almighty did not allow be upon him) arrived in Medina, everybody longed for him to be hypnotised, then how can one of being his host. As his camel passed, families believe that the master – i.e. the Holy Prophet would line up to receive him saying, ‘Come and live – was hypnotised by the Jews, God forbid?” with us.’ Politely the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah The Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) be upon him) would refuse saying, stated, ‘Leave my camel alone. She is under the “Sorcery is also the work of Satan. It does not command of God; she will stop where God behove the status of a prophet or messenger to wants her to stop.’ come under the influence of a spell. Rather, all spells are broken when they come in contact Ultimately it stopped on a site belonging to with a prophet, just as God states in the Holy orphans of the Banu Najjar. The Prophet (peace and Quran ‐ And a magician shall not thrive, come blessings of Allah be upon him) dismounted saying, where he may. Observe, Prophet Moses (peace be upon him) was confronted by the magicians, ‘It seems that this is where God wants us to stop.’ did Moses (peace be upon him) not succeed? To say that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings It was discovered that the land belonged to a few of Allah be upon him) was influenced by magic orphans. A trustee offered the site but the Holy is absolutely incorrect and we can never accept Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) there to be any truth in this matter.” replied that he would not accept without paying for it. A price was settled, and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) decided to build a mosque and some houses on it.” Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 FRIDAY SERMON 17 A basic mosque was constructed. At one corner of Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) the mosque, a veranda was built, referred to set out for Badr, both Hazrat Sa’d bin Khaithamah as Ṣuffah. This was for the poor and his father made the intent of accompanying homeless Muhajirin. They would stay here and him. When it was brought to the Prophet’s known as the Aṣḥabuṣ‐Ṣuffah. They would remain attention that both father and son ‐from a single in the company of the Holy Prophet (peace and household‐ are setting out together, he instructed blessings of Allah be upon him) day and night, only one should set out and advised them to cast perform worship, and recite the Qur’an. The Holy lots to decide. Hazrat Khaithamah told his son, Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would take care of them personally and whenever a “As only one of us can go for battle, I advise gift etc was received or there was something you to stay at home with the women to protect available at home, he would especially separate and guard them”. their share. However, despite all this, they lived in a state of adversity, often close to starvation. Hazrat Sa’d replied, A place of residence was constructed for the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) “Had this been a matter related to something adjacent to the mosque. His home was a small other than Paradise, I would surely have given chamber of merely ten to fifteen feet. A single precedence to your request. But I myself am entrance led from this chamber to the mosque, envious of martyrdom”. from which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would enter the mosque to lead Upon this, they both cast lots which came in the Ṣalat, etc. When the number of his wives favour of Hazrat Sa’d who set out alongside the increased, additional living quarters were built for Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and was martyred at Badr. him) alongside the first. The homes of various other Companions were also built in close proximity of the mosque. The assembly of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would take place at the mosque including all types of consultations. Legal FRIDAY SERMONS verdicts were passed from here. This was the official guesthouse. In short, it served as a centre of any On www.alislam.org the sermon task of national importance. Nonetheless, Hazrat can be: Sohail and his brother had the good fortune of • Heard on audio. offering their land for this Great Centre of Islam. • Viewed on video. Hazrat Sa’ad bin Khaithamah was one of the • Downloaded as a pod cast. twelve chiefs, appointed to supervise the Muslims of Madinah during the second pledge at Aqabah. • Read in Urdu in full and English The first Friday prayer offered in Madinah was at summary (after a few days). the house of Hazrat Sa’d bin Khaithamah. • Read as a gist of the sermon in He owned a well called “Al Ghars” in Quba. The English within hours. Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon • Available as an archive of previously him) would regularly drink from that well saying, delivered sermons. “This is from the fountains of Paradise and its NOW ALSO AVAILABLE ON DAB RADIO water is excellent”. Voice of Islam It was from this well’s water that the blessed remains of the Holy Prophet were washed. Suleiman bin Abaan narrates that when the Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 18 PEACE SYMPOSIUM National Peace Symposium By the Grace of Allah the UK Jama’at held a very Jamia. An elaborate exhibition had also been set successful 16th Peace Symposium on 9th March up in the marquee put up in the car park. This 2019 at Baitul Futuh. It was attended by more featured displays put up by Tabligh, Majlis than a 1000 people of which 700 were dignitaries Ansarullah, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, Review and guests from 32 countries included Ministers, of Religions, International Ahmadi Association of Ambassadors of State, Church leaders and Architects & Engineers and Humanity First. Members of Parliament. The main session began in the Tahir Hall with a Huzoor arrived at the venue at around 5.45 pm recitation from the Holy Qur’an after which Amir and proceeded to the Exhibition Hall for a short Sahib UK, Mr Rafiq Hayat gave a welcome Press Conference where some two dozen address. journalists lay waiting. They included Thereafter, the Most Reverend Kevin representatives from theDaily Telegraph, New McDonald, Archbishop Emeritus of the Roman Statesman, Geo TV, Zee TV, AAJ TV, Euro Times, Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark thanked the The Nation and AI TV, Zee TV among others. Jama’at for its strong unrelenting efforts in One journalist enquired what Huzoor promoting peace of which the Peace Symposium considered to be the most serious threats to was but one example. peace in the UK and around the world. In The highlight of the evening was the address of responding, Huzoor hinted at the content of his Hazrat Amirul Momineen in which he warned the address that he was to give later and replied the world of intensifying global hostilities and the risk following as reported by Orlando Jenkinson Lando of a disastrous nuclear war. Huzoor Aqdas said, of the Surrey Comet, “As rivalries ferment and hatreds become ever ‘The leaders of some of the nuclear powers more deeply entrenched, no one knows where are trigger happy and appear not to such issues will finally lead us or how horrific appreciate the truly grave consequences of the consequences will prove to be.” nuclear warfare. Not only do such weapons have the power to annihilate the countries Huzoor opened by saying that the Jama’at targeted, but also have the potential to would never waver from its efforts to destroy the peace and stability of the entire promote peace and justice in the world. He world. Thus it is imperative that nations and warned that rivalries between nations were their leaders not only focus on their own intensifying and new battle lines were being national interests but consider what is best for drawn that could prove disastrous. the world at large. Dialogue with other Hazrat Amirul Momineen highlighted that nations and communities is vital.’ nuclear war was no longer a remote or distant prospect, but rather a growing threat that could After the short press conference, Huzoor met no longer be discounted or ignored. some of the senior guests that had gathered in Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V mentioned a number the Library before proceeding to the Mosque for of pressing catalysts including tensions between Mughrib and Isha prayers. nuclear powers, conflicts and proxy wars in the Tours for the guests who wished to see the Middle East, far‐right nationalism, anti‐ mosque had begun early at 5 pm and were seeing immigration sentiments, economic frustrations their completion atsalat time. These were and isolationism that continue to push nations undertaken by a team of selected guides from towards nuclear war and global destruction. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 PEACE SYMPOSIUM 19 If we glance at just a few of today’s pressing issues it is clear that the world is heading in an ominous direction. During the past year, the United States claimed, with a degree of confidence, that it was close to securing a historic peace deal with North Korea, but in recent days, it has become clear that nothing of substance has been achieved. Conflict in the Middle East continues to rage. He warned of the catastrophic nuclear was close to securing an historic peace deal destruction that could ensue if nations did not with North Korea but in recent days it has show tolerance or strive to break down the become clear that nothing of substance has causes of division between them. Huzoor Anwar been achieved.” said, And continued, “If there is a nuclear war, we will not only be destroying the world today but we will also be “In recent days, the world witnessed a sudden leaving behind a lasting trail of destruction escalation in tension between India and and misery for our future generations. Hence, Pakistan. Both countries are nuclear powers we must pause and reflect on the and both have built alliances with other consequences of our actions. We should not nations, whether openly or in secret, which consider any issue or conflict, whether within a mean that the potential consequences of a country or at an international level, to be war would be extensive and far‐reaching.” insignificant.” Huzoor Aqdas opined that nations are using Commenting on escalating tensions between conflicts in the Middle East as a tool to create nations, Hazrat Amirul Momineen stated, dominance by building alliances and igniting further conflict. “During the past year, the United States claimed with a degree of confidence that it “On one side, Russia and Turkey are aligning, Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 20 PEACE SYMPOSIUM ‘In terms of Islam, you may wonder what it can teach us about bringing peace in the world when much of the instability and conflict in recent years has centred around Muslim countries. Yet the sorry state of those nations is because they have moved far away from the true teachings of Islam. whilst on the other side, the United States and emerged and the future remains uncertain Saudi Arabia are joining together and are and precarious, as tensions rise between ratcheting up pressure on Iran and seeking nations who have their own vested interests further sanctions against them. Political tied into the future of Syria.” experts are openly expressing that the objective of these nations is to dominate the He mentioned that although these nations Middle East.” attempted to defeat extremist groups like Daesh in the Middle East, they have in reality, only Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V further stated, allowed their hateful teachings to spread further. Huzoor explained, “Time and again, we have seen examples of countries that have intervened in war‐torn “It is said that the terrorist group Daesh is on nations or given aid to deprived countries on the verge of collapse and that their so‐called the pretext of bringing peace but have Khilafat is finished. Yet experts also warn that attached strings that enable them to take though Daesh has lost its territory, its hateful control of the weaker country’s resources. ideology persists and its members who have Rather than being content with their own survived are now scattering and could wealth, powerful countries seek to assert their eventually regroup and perpetrate attacks in control over weaker nations.” Europe or elsewhere.” Huzoor Anwar cited Syria as an example of a Hazrat Amirul Momineen also emphasised that war that had caused endless misery and nationalism continues to rear its ugly head and remained in a precarious state stating, that far‐right parties are gaining popularity globally. He explained that a core reason “Over almost a decade, Syria has been underpinning far‐right popularity has been ravaged by bloodshed and torn asunder. It is widespread immigration. said that the civil war is now edging towards Huzoor further explained that feelings of an end but what has the past decade achieved resentment stem from the belief that existing except the death of hundreds of thousands of indigenous citizens are being short‐changed in innocent people and the displacement of order to fund and support immigrants. He millions of others? Nothing positive has provided both a long term and a short term Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 PEACE SYMPOSIUM 21 ‘From an Islamic perspective, we should strive for the entire world to unite together. In terms of currency, the world should be united...In terms of free business and trade, the world should be united and in terms of freedom of movement and immigration, cohesive and practical policies should be developed, so that the world can become united.’. solution to resolve this pressing issue. Explaining that the underlying cause of most resentment in the long term solution, he said, society tends to be economic and financial “The long‐term solution to the immigration frustration and that this inevitably leads to the crisis has to be to establish peace in war‐torn spread of Islamophobia and xenophobia. He said, countries and to help the local people, who have been forced to endure lives of misery and danger, “Certain groups take advantage of such to live peacefully.” anxiety by laying the blame at the feet of immigrants or at the followers of religion and Discussing the short term solution, Hazrat incite sentiments of hatred towards them. Amirul Momineen advised, Thus, an impression has developed in Europe that Asians, Africans and particularly Muslim “In the short term, where refugees or asylum immigrants are a threat to society. In the seekers come to the West due to the prevailing United States, there are similar fears political or religious conditions in their own regarding Muslims and also Hispanics seeking countries, they should be treated with dignity to enter the country through Mexico.” and respect. At the same time, whatever support they are given should not be at the Hazrat Khalifatul Masih clarified that the root expense of existing citizens. Immigrants should cause of frustration and the resulting hostility, be strongly encouraged to enter employment whether in the East or the West, is economic as soon as possible, rather than living off injustice and so it is essential that a concerted benefits for long periods. They should work effort is made to bridge the economic divide hard, seek to stand upon their own two feet amongst nations and their people. and contribute positively to their new society. He explained that if such countries, that have Otherwise, if they are continually funded by been centres of war or division, are enabled to tax‐payers money it will inevitably lead to prosper economically, they will no longer harbour grievances.” frustrations or bear hatred for other nations. Nor will their people be forced to migrate. Furthermore, Huzoor stated his belief to be, Hazrat Amirul Momineen also addressed the Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 22 PEACE SYMPOSIUM widespread uncertainty and anxiety in the UK “The covenant proved to be a magnificent regarding Brexit and the UK’s future relationship charter of human rights and governance and with the European Union. He mentioned that he ensured peace between the different made his views on Brexit very clear during an communities living in Madinah. According to address at the European Parliament in 2012, its terms, all people, regardless of their faith when he stated that the strength of Europe lies in or ethnicity, were bound to respect the rights its remaining united and together as one. He said, of one another. Freedom of belief and freedom of conscience were cornerstones of that “In my speech seven years ago, I focused upon treaty.” the importance of removing the fears of the public about immigration and emphasising the Hazrat Khalifatul Masih concluded his address benefits of unity. However, people’s concerns by praying for the long term peace of the world. were not adequately addressed and so, Huzoor prayed, increasingly, people across Europe have come to question the benefits of the European “May Allah the Almighty enable true peace to Union…Hence, where I had hoped for greater emerge and may the long shadows of war and unity in Europe, the past few years have conflict that hover above us be replaced by witnessed increased division and turmoil.” blue skies of peace and prosperity. I pray for an end to the frustrations and deprivation that Citing Islamic teachings to offer a solution to have plagued the lives of countless people and this turmoil, Huzoor Aqdas stated: have fuelled devastating wars and grievances across the world…I pray that we show “The Islamic viewpoint is that peace can best tolerance of each other’s beliefs and customs be achieved through unity. Yet, regretfully, and value the diversity within our societies. I instead of uniting, we are seeking separation pray that we come to see the best in humanity and prioritising our individual interests over and use each other’s strengths and skills to the collective interests of the world. I believe build a better world for our children and to that such policies will, and already are, cultivate lasting peace in society.” undermining the world’s peace and security.” After completing his address, Huzoor brought Explaining how Islamic teachings the formal proceedings to a close with a silent provide peace to the world, Hazrat Amirul prayer after which dinner was served. Momineen explained, (Huzoor’s quotes taken with thanks from a “To get an accurate portrayal of Islamic press release issued by the Press & Media governance and leadership we should look to Desk of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at the era of the Founder of Islam, the Holy unless otherwise stated.) Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). After the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) migrated to the city of Medina, he formed a covenant with the Jewish people, whereby the Muslims and the Jewish citizens were to live together peacefully and with a spirit of mutual sympathy, tolerance and equity.” And continued, Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 PEACE SYMPOSIUM 23 The Ahmadiyya Muslim Prize for the Advancement of Peace The Ahmadiyya Muslim Prize for the Advancement of Peace is an international award that was launched in 2009 by His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper). It is awarded in recognition of an individual’s or an organisation’s contribution for the advancement of the cause of peace. YEAR RECIPIENT 2009 Lord Eric Avebury – UK 2010 Abdul Sattar Edhi – Pakistan 2011 SOS Children’s Villages – UK 2012 Dr Boachie‐Adjei – Ghana 2013 Magnus MacFarlane‐Barrow – Scotland 2014 Mrs Sindhutai Sapkal – India 2015 Hadeel Qassim – Iraq 2016 Mrs Setsuko Thurlow – Canada 2017 Dr Leonid Roshal – Russia 2018 Dr Fred Mednick – USA 2018 Peace Prize Winner – Dr Fred Mednick ‐ All Teachers Without USA Borders programmes are Launched in 2000, the mission of Teachers Without conceived and led by teacher Borders is to connect teachers to information and leaders. Programmes are each other in order to close the educational divide. designed to be adaptable, It is based on the premise that teachers are adoptable, affordable, and community change agents and key drivers of global accessible so that local development. leaders can ensure relevance Initiatives include education in emergencies, girls for the communities they education, peace and human rights education, serve bullying, ICT in education and child friendly spaces. Today, Teachers Without Borders members Teachers Without Borders programmes and represent 171 countries and its social networks are resources have been adopted by teachers and flourishing. They are a local action organisation — on communities worldwide including Afghanistan, a global scale, and it is completely free. Bangladesh, Brazil, Brunei, Cameroon, China, Ghana, It was founded by Dr Fred Mednick, who is a former Haiti, Mexico, Nigeria, Turkey and United States of English teacher and a high school principal. America. List of Countries Represented Peace Symposium 2019 The following 32 countries were represented at the National Peace Symposium 2019. EMBASSIES Canada • Gambia • India • Iraq • Israel • Liberia • Morocco • Uganda COUNTRIES Bahrain• Belgium • Bosnia • Canada • Croatia • Finland • Georgia • Greece • Iceland • Italy • Kosovo Kazakhstan • Lithuania • Macedonia • Mauritius • Nepal • Netherlands • Norway • Portugal • Spain Sweden • Switzerland • United Kingdom • USA Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 24 PEACE SYMPOSIUM NATIONAL PEACE SYMPOSIUM UK FEEDBACK AND MESSAGES The feedback from the guests who attended was overwhelming. A selected few are presented below. In addition, the social media campaign yielded 115,000 impressions to the message of the symposium tweets. For the first time a post event video highlighting extracts of Huzoor’s speech was issued which significantly increased the amount of impressions and reach. In total the Twitter audience of the Peace Symposium reached 900,000. Cllr Anthony Williams, Chairman East Hampshire District Council A few words of gratitude to thank you for inviting me and Pamela to the 2019 Peace Symposium. It is a truly uplifting event and I only wish that more people, throughout the World could sit in silence for 40 minutes to listen to, and digest, the views of His Holiness on the subject of peace in the world...... My sincere good wishes to His Holiness, yourselves and all in the Community in the UK, and throughout the World. Reverend John McMohan, Senior Representative of Church of Scotland Dear Abdul, thank you for your hospitality on Saturday. I enjoyed the event very much and, indeed, I was talking to people at work about it today. We need to work together more closely for the peace of the world. God bless you. Layla Coe ‐ Soka Gakkai International Well organised, friendly people on the door, simple registration system, delicious and plentiful food, inspiring speeches and a wonderfully diverse audience. What more is there to say? I hope that all the positive energy from the event carries through into the lives of those who were there and who we all touch. Vedran Obucina ‐ Old Catholic Patriarchy Excellent organisation and preparation, maybe mixing the delegations at the dinner tables would provide better making of contacts. Mirre C – Freedom of Conscience Very honoured to be part of this call for peace. Vasco Fronzoni – Professor University of Oriental Sciences Naples Excellent organization, important participants, interesting topics, stimulating meetings. Nina Amin ‐ Sangam It was well organised, inspirational speakers and had a chance to make acquaintance with some new people. I feel it was well managed overall. I would have liked to spend more time on the tour of the Mosque and learn little bit more. Mariia Lokalova Thanks to my neighbours Amir and Rahat, me and my husband had the opportunity to attend the National Peace Symposium 2019. Also before I had attended the Peace symposium for ladies.Both events were done, organised and held just great! People of your community are very nice and polite, we have received amazing experience. Thank you very much. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 PEACE SYMPOSIUM 25 Video message to the National Peace Symposium from: H.E. Marie‐Louise Coleiro Preca ‐ President of Malta “The theme of this symposium, The Critical Need for Peace, is particularly close to my heart…I believe our faith communities are essential stakeholders to create an environment of sustainable peace and holistic well‐being in all of our communities, our countries and our world. One important way to achieve this is by focusing on interfaith dialogue…Underlying the diversity of our faith traditions there are common values. I believe that these common values should be the connections that must exist amongst us and amongst our human family, because they are critical for peace. At a period in our history when the world is facing increasing uncertainties and social tensions, I believe that our religious leaders have an important responsibility to encourage dialogue among our respective communities. It is by promoting dialogue and exploring opportunities for cooperation that we can all achieve sustainable peace for our world. I look forward to joining you at a future edition of this important gathering. May you continue to promote an environment of dialogue and respect for the benefit of our entire human family.” Message of Support from Emanuela Del Rae, Italian Vice‐Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. “Let me express my deep appreciation for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Commuinity engagement in activities dedicated to protect and promote universal human rights in the world and to recognise efforts made by those who seek to advance the cause of peace… “The 16th Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK National Peace Symposium is a very significant event, which makes us all understand how fundamental it is to understand the responsibility that we have in reaffirming universal values within the framework of Human Rights. The challenges posed by our globalized society at all levels – social, economic, political, cultural – call upon us the need to be united for peace and to strive together for the improvement of the conditions of people today and of future generations. The leadership of His Holiness the Khalifa is strongly significant in this complex context.” Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 26 RELOCATION OF MARKAZ Relocation of Markaz to Islamabad, Surrey By Waleed Ahmad During the closing minutes of his Friday Sermon of support and enabled the Jama’at to purchase a 25‐ 12th April 2019, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V departed acre tract of land, later named Islamabad. from the main subject of his discourse and drew the Subsequently, a further 6 acres was added to this. attention of members to a revelation of the The Jalsa Salanas took place there and it contained Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) ‐ ‘expand residences for Jama’at employees and Waqfe your house’ which had been vouchsafed to him at Zindagis. There was a small house for the residence different times. Huzoor pointed out that according of Khalifatul Masih, a few offices and one of the to the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) when barrack‐style buildings was used as a mosque to initially God Almighty bestowed upon him this offer prayers. Huzoor recalled that when he visited revelation, only two or three people would come to the UK in 1985, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (Allah meet him and sit in his gatherings. Many did not have mercy on him) especially said to him that God know of him. Subsequently the Promised Messiah Almighty had granted an excellent site, which is even (peace be upon him) received many other sufficient to serve as the Markaz (headquarters). revelations and alongside them, the revelation of Although these were not his exact words, Huzoor ‘expand your house’ was revealed to him on several explained, however he said words to this effect. occasions. When God Almighty instructs His Furthermore, Huzoor pointed out there are some prophets by way of revelation to carry out a certain other indications to this effect and that he was task, it means that He would assist them with Divine convinced that it was the wish of Hazrat Khalifatul succour and support. The history of the Jama’at is Masih IV (Allah have mercy on him) to settle the proof of how God Almighty fulfilled this prophecy Markaz (headquarters) in Islamabad. with full grandeur and glory, and how He continues to fulfil the prophecy inherent in this revelation to Huzoor then explained that God Almighty has this day. appointed a time for everything and that He has Huzoor then proceeded to recount that when now granted us the opportunity to carry out Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (Allah have mercy on him) reconstruction work in Islamabad. As a result, new migrated to the UK in 1984, God Almighty offices have been built with better amenities; a immediately showed a miraculous sign of His Divine purpose‐built mosque has been completed along Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 RELOCATION OF MARKAZ 27 “Huzoor pointed out there are some other indications to this effect and that he was convinced that it was the wish of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV (Allah have mercy on him) to settle the Markaz (headquarters) in Islamabad.” with a residence for Khalifatul Masih. Houses for other offices. Aside from this, Majlis Khuddamul Waqfe Zindagis and Jama’at workers have also been Ahmadiyya UK has purchased a large building in that constructed, with more to be built in due course. locality. Prior to all this, Huzoor reminded that God Opining on the issues pertaining to the then current Almighty had enabled the Jama’at to purchase Markaz in London, Huzoor explained that there the Hadeeqatul Mahdi to hold the Jalsa Salana – a site offices were set up in houses that had been which was spread over 200 acres. In addition to this, converted temporarily for this purpose. The space Jamia Ahmadiyya UK, which was previously in was congested and it was difficult to operate in London, also moved nearby. The current site is these circumstances. Since the workload has approximately 30 acres in very idyllic surroundings. increased many times over, it was difficult to Huzoor pointed out that all these places are situated continue due to a scarcity of space. Moreover, the at a 10 – 20‐minute drive away from Islamabad. Council was apt to complain from time to time that There was no conscious plan in place to purchase all these houses were residential units as opposed to these sites due to the redevelopment of Islamabad, offices and urged the closure of the latter. Huzoor said. Rather, it was God Almighty Who Huzoor announced that now after the provided all these sites close to one another. reconstruction, the three or four offices that used to Coming to the crucial point, Huzoor announced operate in these houses will be moving to that since the residence of the Khalifa and some Islamabad, Inshallah. Allah has blessed this plan in offices have now been completed, he would be other ways. Huzoor revealed that recently God relocating to Islamabadinshallah in a few days’ time. Almighty has granted the Jama’at a large two storey He urged the Jama’at to pray that by Allah’s grace building in Farnham, situated two to three miles this change may prove to be a blessing in every away, which is suitable for a printing press and a few respect. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 28 RELOCATION OF MARKAZ It was a seminal moment. A sense of history, even shock, was palpable among the audience listening to the sermon in Baitul Futuh. This was clearly a significant step forward for the Jama’at. Accordingly, a few days later on 15th April 2019, Huzoor made his final preparations for this relocation. He led theAsr prayers at Fazl Mosque. The headquarters of the Jama’at had been here for 35 years since 1984 when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV arrived in the UK. Hundreds of people gathered to bid Huzoor farewell. Before leaving, Huzoor listened to a few tiranas sung by little children and led everyone in a silent prayer. It was an emotional scene with several in tears. He left a little after 6 pm. The feelings of sadness felt by many with the departure of the Khalifa, and thus the headquarters “Huzoor Aqdas led the from Masjid Fazl, was soon replaced with happiness Maghrib and Isha prayers at and joy on receiving the news of Huzoor’s arrival in the newly built Mubarak Islamabad. The smile of contentment on Huzoor’s Mosque. It was a special and blessed face was a joy to behold. Receiving him at Islamabad were hundreds of momentous occasion in the men, women and children as Huzoor’s motorcade history of the Jama’at. made its way in at 6.55 pm. As Huzoor advised, we Upon arriving, Huzoor waved towards the crowd should continue to pray that and listened to the poems recited by young children. Allah bless this relocation in Later, Huzoor Aqdas led the Maghrib and Isha every respect for the benefit prayers at the newly built Mubarak Mosque. It was a of the Jama’at and its special and momentous occasion in the history of progress in the future.” the Jama’at. As Huzoor advised, we should continue to pray that Allah bless this relocation in every respect for the benefit of the Jama’at and its progress in the future. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 IAAAE SYMPOSIUM 2019 29 IAAAE SYMPOSIUM 2019 The 15th Symposium of the International Association of Ahmadi Architects and Engineers (IAAAE) Europe took place on Saturday 27th April 2019 in the Tahir Hall in Baitul Futuh. The theme was ‘Education For Sustainable Development’. The highlight of the entire day was the arrival of Hazrat Amirul Momineen who graced the event with his presence. Huzoor Aqdas arrived to lead the Asr prayers before proceeding to the Tahir Hall for the final session of the Symposium. Tilawat‐e‐Qur’an was by Mr Abdul Razzak Sheikh after which Mr Mohsin Tahir presented a brief report of what had already taken place. Mr Akram Ahmedi Chairman IAAAE Europe then gave an account of the activities of the organisation during 2018/19. He spoke of the model village projects that the charity was embarking on and how it had established some 20 such villages in various parts of Africa each providing roads, a community centre, sanitation facilities and MTA for the local mosque. The 3 set up in 2018/19 were located in Benin, Mali and Gambia which is almost complete. project was discussed. The Mosque can now These were helping around 1700 people. Light accommodate 900 worshippers. Another Mosque utilising solar power cells provided was that IAAAE was involved with was the Mubarak mentioned. Mosque in Mali. The Chairman then moved to the provision of Mr Akram Ahmedi then elaborated upon the water through its Water For Life initiative. To date Masroor International Technical College initiative 2,667 pumps had been repaired which has helped and how that was being developed. The first over a million people. The alternative Energy College had already been established in committee had assessed 50 existing systems in Ouagadougou Burkina Faso and there were plans Uganda and 25 in Burkina Faso and installed 25 to have such colleges in every African country in new installations each in Gambia and Guinea due course. Bissau. Twenty one IAAAE members from the In his address, Huzoor congratulated the European countries were also trained up to organisation for its efforts. Huzoor commended assume some of the complex technical the role it had played in the construction of responsibilities associated with these operations. Mosques and prayed that Allah may continue to The Charity’s efforts in providing alternative increase the scope of their work and expertise. energy to desolate parts of Africa were mentioned Huzoor said, and its effort in the $1.6bn Darus Salam Mosque Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 30 IAAAE SYMPOSIUM 2019 Your services are proving to be of great benefit to the Jama’at and the wider society,’ “ ... ‘May He increase your knowledge, skills and capabilities so that your work continues to achieve ever higher standards.’ “With the Grace of Allah, wherever in the Hazrat Amirul Momineen continued: world the IAAAE is serving, its members are working in an exemplary fashion and with a “Unquestionably, such devoted people are spirit of true service and dedication. In this working with the spirit of a true Waqf (life regard, I pray that may Allah the Almighty devotee) of the Jama’at. I greatly appreciate enable you to continually increase the scope their sincere efforts and I pray that may Allah of your work and expertise.” the Almighty reward them immensely for this service and bless their efforts manifold.” Huzoor commented on IAAAE’s contribution in the Tanzanian and Mali Mosque complexes and In mentioning the new complexes being built stated that the reports received were encouraging Huzoor said that they will further enhance our praising the planning and design which were efforts and enable the spreading of our messages. impressive. Huzoor said with the operation of these centres, others will see how we utilise our ‘Your services are proving to be of great centres for the benefit of humanity and to offer a benefit to the Jama’at and the wider society,’ helping hand to the weaker and needy in society. Huzoor said, He added, “The members of the IAAAE are working with ‘May He increase your knowledge, skills and great diligence, care and with a sincere desire capabilities so that your work continues to to serve the Jama’at and to alleviate the achieve ever higher standards.’ suffering of people who are living impoverished and desperately tough lives. In Huzoor advised the IAAAE workers that their fact, some of the volunteers do not even claim ultimate objective should not just be their for expenses and so, apart from sacrificing personal work but their personal relationship with their time and and providing their Allah and how such services for others helps professional expertise free of charge, they are develop and enhance that relationship. He said, even bearing the costs of travel personally.” Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 IAAAE SYMPOSIUM 2019 31 “I wish to remind all of you that it is of the service. May they learn from the positive utmost importance that you pay special examples of their elders and serve with even attention to establishing a true and lasting greater passion, energy and skill than their connection with Allah the Almighty and predecessors so that the work of remain ever grateful to Him and continually the IAAAE continues to go from strength to strive to improve the standards of your strength.” worship.” Huzoor then led everyone in a silent prayer. And, Photographs were taken before he joined the gathering for dinner. “Your sole focus should not be the material work you are doing but rather building your personal relationship with Allah the Almighty Huzoor’s quotes taken with thanks from a should always remain your paramount Press release issued by the Press & Media objective. If you sincerely aspire to attain the Desk of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at. nearness of Allah the Almighty you will see how He blesses your efforts and you will come to see the most beautiful fruits of your labour.” Huzoor concluded his address with a prayer for the members of IAAAE. He said, “May you all prove to be great assets for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and may the younger generations step forward in great numbers to follow in the footsteps of the older members who have offered years of Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 32 JAMIA CONVOCATION JAMIA CONVOCATION (INCORPORATING STUDENTS FROM THE UK, GERMANY AND CANADA) Jamia Ahmadiyya UK hosted a joint convocation for 41 graduates from the UK (17), Germany (18) and Canada (6) on 29th April 2019. The event represented the 7th Convocation ceremony for the UK, 8th for Germany and 4th for Canada. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V presided over the proceedings. He presented each graduate with their ‘Shahid Degree’ certificates and delivered a faith‐ inspiring address, in which he reminded the newly qualified Imams that they should continually seek to increase and progress their knowledge and understanding of Islam. Huzoor emphasised the heavy responsibility that now lay upon the life devotees and the need to recognise the overall objective of their mission. “You have dedicated your lives for the sake of that Messiah and Mahdi who was sent by God Almighty for the renaissance of Islam. You have devoted your lives for the sake of fulfilling his mission. So this is a great responsibility that you have taken upon yourselves.” Continuing, Huzoor stated, covenant that you have made. And this cannot be fulfilled simply through mere words, rather “By devoting your lives, you have presented lifelong devotion and a spiritual Jihad (struggle) yourselves to be the support of the true Khilafat will be required.” which was to be established after the advent of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) who Hazrat Khaliftul Masih V advised that personal came in accordance with the prophecies of the efforts alone would not result in success. Rather, Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings obedience, sincerity and God’s help were the means be upon him).” to bring about a change for good in the world. Huzoor advised, Hazrat Amirul Momineen explained that missio‐ naries ought to serve their faith with a spirit of true “Constant prayer and the establishment of a sincerity and absolute fidelity exemplified by the personal relationship with Allah the Almighty Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him). Huzoor said, too are essential for your success. A person cannot achieve true fidelity and loyalty to his “Allah the Almighty has praised Prophet faith until he prays earnestly and creates a Abraham (peace be upon him) in the Holy personal relationship with God seeking His help Quran where He states, ‘Abraham who in attaining the highest standards of fulfilled the commandments’ because he faithfulness.” fulfilled the covenant which he had made to Allah the Almighty. Now fidelity to your faith Constant self‐assessment and improvement was also demands that you too should fulfil this necessary, Huzoor Aqdas exhorted, Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 JAMIA CONVOCATION 33 Whilst speaking of the need to improve in their spirituality, Huzoor further emphasised the need for the young missionaries to develop true compassion for humanity. He said true sympathy and empathy towards others would enable them to forge strong bonds with the younger members of the Jama’at and the wider society. “We must regularly assess ourselves. We Hazrat Amirul Momineen stated that when it comes should see whether or not we are advancing in to matters of faith, one should be free of all our love for Allah the Almighty. We should not hypocrisies and never make compromises. Huzoor make hollow claims or pay mere lip‐service to advised that the graduates must become like “firm our faith. Rather we must self‐analyse and ask mountains” in their resolve to follow the teachings ourselves, ‘Are we consumed by the love of of Islam. Huzoor reflected on the spiritual and moral Allah? Are our hearts immersed in it? Are we state of the world and said that mankind is in endeavouring to fulfil the rights of Allah the desperate need of guidance and the graduating Almighty? Are we trying to attain the high Imams must play their role in guiding people standards required of His worship?’” towards morality. “I hope that by the grace of Allah you will “Nowadays, majority of the world is engulfed in always and forever continue to strive towards a race towards materialism and has forgotten becoming submerged in the love of Allah the God Almighty and thus is mired in spiritual Almighty and will try to consistently rid darkness. In such times it is your responsibility yourselves of the material desires of this world.” to become the guiding stars of the night. This is the task of those who have presented their lives Whilst speaking of the need to improve in their for this purpose.” spirituality, Huzoor further emphasised the need for the young missionaries to develop true compassion And, for humanity. He said true sympathy and empathy towards others would enable them to forge strong “In this day and age you have been made the bonds with the younger members of the Jama’at and spiritual leaders of the world by God Almighty. the wider society. He desires that you may become the centre towards which people flock to gain religious “You should hold compassion in your hearts for knowledge and to increase in spirituality. This humanity more than all others. It is sympathy demands that you create a bond of love with for humanity that will enable you to widen your God Almighty and increase in your spirituality.” circles and to increase the ties of brotherhood with others. It will allow you to attach the youth Reminding them about their objectives, Hazrat to yourselves which will better enable you to Khalifatul Masih V said the young Imams must not help them with their moral and spiritual only guide people of the Jama’at towards improving training. People will come closer to you if they their obedience to the teachings of Islam, but also see your kindness and consideration towards must inform others about the beautiful and peace‐ them.” loving teachings of Islam. Huzoor Aqdas stated, Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 34 JAMIA CONVOCATION Jamia students from the United Kingdon, Canada and Germany with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V “You must follow not the world, but let the morality. Huzoor added, world follow you! Continue to follow and spread the teachings of Islam with “We ourselves should be the first to follow the determination and perseverance. You must teachings of Islam without any fear or complex make the world follow the light of the as we are the ones who have pledged to teachings of Islam, rather than bowing down spread its message to the corners of the to materialism and worldly ideologies.” earth.” And Hazrat Khalifatul Masih concluded his address by praying for the young missionaries, “Indecency and immodesty are becoming widespread in the name of so‐called ‘freedom’. “May Allah enable you to progress in your love You have been brought up in the West and so for the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and you know this well and now it is your duty to blessings be upon him) and attain the love of combat this spiritual decline. Material God Almighty. May Allah the Almighty enable progress is tantamount to ignorance if it lacks you and I to spread the peaceful teachings of the blessings of God Almighty.” Islam, which was the task begun by the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) in Hazrat Amirul Momineen said that truly civilised servitude of the Holy Prophet Muhammad and educated are those who follow the teachings (peace and blessing be upon him).” given by God Almighty through His Messengers and it is through the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) that humanity Adapted from a Press Release issued by the Press & Media witnessed uncivilised people not only become Office of the Ahmaddiya Muslim Jama’at. civilised, but reach the pinnacle of civilisation and Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 WAQFE NAU IJTEMAS 35 WAQFE NAU IJTEMAS Waqfe Nau Ijtemas for the girls and boys took place on the 6th and 7th of April 2019 at Baitul Futuh. At the first event more than 1100 women and girls were present. The highlight was the inspiring address by Hazrat Amirul Momineen in which Huzoor urged Waqfat Nau to “Disregard any hesitation or fear and stand up with certainty and conviction in the truth of your faith and respond to those who seek to defame its pure teachings.” Huzoor explained that in today’s society, attacks against Islam, through false allegations and criticisms, were extremely prevalent. In light of this, we must never feel any embarrassment or a sense of inferiority regarding our faith. Huzoor Aqdas urged the ladies to stand up with certainty and conviction to respond to those who seek to defame Islam. Hazrat Amirul Momineen also directed members to set the highest standards in practicing the teachings of Islam, so that its values remain firmly instilled in future generations. He warned those Ahmadis who do not remain attached to their faith that their own lives will be squandered and their future generations will be lost to the materialistic world. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih began his address by reminding those in attendance that, although they have grown up in Western society, they are distinct Muslim women must read and understand the perfect from their counterparts because their parents, prior teachings that Allah the Almighty has bestowed upon to their birth, dedicated their future lives for the sake us in the blessed shape of the Holy Qur’an. of their faith. As such, they must constantly strive to learn and act upon the teachings of Islam. “Just as the Holy Qur’an was relevant and worthy Speaking about the importance of the five daily of practice 1400 years ago, it remains the same prayers, Huzoor stated, today. Therefore, all Waqfat‐e‐Nau must entirely eliminate from their minds the belief that Islam “You must offer Salat sincerely and in a state of is an ‘old‐fashioned’ religion or somehow complete submission to Allah the Almighty and backward. Instead of being a religion of the past, not in a hurried way just so you can claim to have it is a religion of today and tomorrow and will fulfilled your obligation… Certainly, the foremost remain until the end of time, Insha’Allah.” aspiration of any member of Waqf‐e‐Nau, indeed of any true Muslim, and of any person who has Huzoor Aqdas directed members to read the books pledged their life to the service of Islam, should of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) in order be to attain the nearness of Allah the Almighty.” to understand the Holy Qur’an’s meanings and to defend Islam. Huzoor proceeded to explain that the Holy Qur’an contains universal, comprehensive, and relevant “In this era, it is only by reading the books of the teachings which provide the answer to every charge Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) and his or accusation made against Islam. As such, Ahmadi Khulafa (successors) that we can truly compre‐ Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 36 WAQFE NAU IJTEMAS hend our faith and respond to those who level Amirul Momineen commented that most people have false allegations against Islam… You must make lost their true religious identity and of those who still it a habit to set aside time every day to read the identify as Christians, many are not following its books or writings of the Promised Messiah (peace teachings. be upon him) as they will furnish you with the necessary means to defend your religion.” “In the name of so‐called ‘freedom’, today’s society considers itself to be extremely advanced and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V pointed out that Ahmadi progressive and believe they have reached the Muslim girls should remain proud of their faith and height of civilisation. Yet, in reality, as society has never fall prey to the belief that Islam was not relevant moved away from religion, moral standards have or in touch with modern society. declined in parallel. In terms of morality and virtue, instead of advancing, modern societies are “Never entertain the thought that your religion is suffering from deep decay. By separating from God somehow backward or out of touch with the Almighty, humanity is rapidly moving away from modern world. Conversely, the more you take basic standards of common decency.” pride in your religion and the more you live your lives according to the teachings of Islam, the As an example of the moral decay associated with a more others will respect you and this is how your separation from God, Huzoor pointed towards the honour and dignity will be established in the breakdown of the family system. He said it has world.” become normalised for children to disrespect their parents, all in the name of ‘freedom’ and He advised Ahmadi Muslim women to take pride in ‘independence’, thus threatening the family unit. their faith and never harbour “any form of inferiority complex” about their faith. Increasingly, Huzoor mentioned, children are being taken into care homes or local authorities and police “There is no Islamic teaching that should cause are being called to resolve domestic issues. any complex or apprehension to emerge in your minds. Never worry for a second that others “Is it a measure of success if more children are might taunt you or consider you to be a laughing being taken into social care or if the authorities stock because of your religious beliefs. If they are being required to act? Is this progress? Is this mock, let them!” development? Is this the great achievement of our time? Now, belatedly, society is starting to Huzoor Aqdas noted that some young Ahmadi understand the harmful consequences of Muslims, particularly teenagers“feel humiliated and absolute freedom.” rejected” due to the ridicule they witness of their religious beliefs in the wider society. Speaking about the importance of maintaining a Guiding the youth to keep their “head held high” in peaceful family unit, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V said, such circumstances, Hazrat Amirul Momineen advised, “Always remember that the peace of society is directly connected to the peace within families “If you are ever mocked for acting upon your within that society. Peace in the home is based religion you should never take it as a personal on good morals and mutual respect between a humiliation, rather you should consider it to be a husband and his wife and between the parents badge of honour and feel pride in the knowledge and their children.” that you have stayed strong in your faith in the face of adversity. Showing patience and keeping Huzoor reminded the members of Waqf‐e Nau that your head held high in such circumstances is the they must manifest high morals at all times and fulfil true means of establishing your honour and self‐ the rights of their parents and other family members respect in the world.” and seek to make their home a “mirror reflection of Islam’s teachings.” Analysing the state of Western society, Hazrat Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 WAQFE NAU IJTEMAS 37 “Never entertain the thought that your religion is somehow backward or out of touch with the modern world. Conversely, the more you take pride in your religion and the more you live your lives according to the teachings of Islam, the more others will respect you and this is how your honour and dignity will be established in the world.” Hazrat Amirul Momineen further reminded the message of Islam. parents of Waqf‐e‐Nau children about their Hazrat Amirul Momineen emphasised the need for responsibilities and stated, members of Waqf‐e‐Nau to hold true to Islamic principles in the best manner and said: “I also wish to remind the parents of Waqf‐e‐Nau children that they must continually reflect upon “Always remember that, for both believing men the fact that they have pledged their children for and believing women, it is necessary to keep the sake of Islam and so if they do not set a pious righteousness at the forefront of your mind, example for their children they will have failed to which means to strive towards attaining every discharge their duties.” form of goodness and virtue. Thus, endeavour to be the most truthful, the most hard‐working and Huzoor also said that many women who are most faithful servants of Islam. Consider it your members of the Waqf‐e‐Nau scheme are now lifelong duty to spread the true message of mothers themselves and so they must set a personal Islam.” example of piety for their children to follow and learn from. Concluding his address, Huzoor prayed saying, “The high status of women in Islam is such that “May you nurture the generation that lies in your it is only through their noble efforts that the laps in a way that ensures that the Ahmadiyya coming generations will remain attached to their Muslim Community’s spiritual, moral and faith. Only if mothers play their crucial roles can intellectual standards continue to rise and that the great values of our religion remain firmly no Ahmadi Muslim child moves away from the instilled in our future generations. Otherwise, we teachings of Islam and wastes their life.” could suffer the same fate as other religious communities, who have lost their traditions and This event on the first day reserved for women and values over time.” girls of Waqfat Nau concluded with a silent prayer led by Huzoor Aqdas. Huzoor Aqdas pointed out that if mothers do not play their vital role, then Mosques too will “become empty and hollow shells” just as the places of worship Adapted from a press release issued by the Press & Media of other faiths. However, he said that this will not be Office of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at. the case with the Mosques of the Jama’at because it is the promise of Allah the Almighty that Islam will remain a living religion and it is for this purpose that the Jama’at was established by the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him), to revive the true peaceful Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 38 WAQFE NAU IJTEMAS The second day of the Waqfe Nau Ijtemas was neglectful of that part of their religion, the dedicated to the men and boys of the scheme. The worship of Allah, which, after the declaration of Ijtema was held on Sunday 7th April and was faith, is the most fundamental obligation upon honoured with the presence of Hazrat Amirul any Muslim.” Momineen who addressed the 1700 strong audience which included 1400 Waqfe Nau. Hazrat Amirul Momineen proceeded to emphasize that it is critical for allWaqf‐e‐Nau to strive to act In his address, Huzoor reminded the Waqf‐e‐ upon all the commands of Allah the Almighty and to Nau that they must fulfil their sacred pledge to serve fulfil the rights of one another. He pointed out that it Islam in every aspect of their lives. He advised them is not merely enough for Waqf‐e‐Nau to know their to bring about pious changes in their lives that would faith, but they must practice it at a much higher enable them to fulfil the rights of Allah the Almighty standard than others, and His Creation. Huzoor Aqdas began his address by explaining that “You should never sit back in contentment merely every Waqfe Nau should understand that his Waqf is because your name is included in the list of the only of real value if he has established a sincere Waqf‐e‐Nau. Rather, you must understand the connection with Allah the Almighty through the scale of your responsibilities and your everlasting worship of Allah and the five daily prayers. obligation to your faith. At all times, it is your Huzoor expressed disappointment with duty to better your moral standards and to those Waqf‐e‐Nau who claimed to have given their increase your religious knowledge.” lives for the sake of Islam, but are unable to even offer the five daily prayers regularly. He stated, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V drew the attention of the Waqfeen to the wishes and expectations that the “Never mind offering the five daily prayers in Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) held of those congregation, there are some who, upon being who pledged their lives for the sake of Islam. He asked, admit that they do not even offer the five detailed how the Promised Messiah (peace be upon daily prayers regularly. What is the purpose and him) taught that those who associated themselves benefit of such a Waqf? On the one hand, they with him should devote their lives to their faith in the have pledged their lives for the sake of Allah the same way he did. The Promised Messiah (peace be Almighty. Yet, on the other hand, they remain upon him) taught that Waqf requires one to strive and Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 WAQFE NAU IJTEMAS 39 struggle to reach that point where they can sincerely Stating that it was the task of Waqf‐e‐Nau to follow in claim that their life, their death, their sacrifices and the blessed footsteps of the Promised Messiah (peace their prayers are all for the sake of Allah the Almighty. be upon him), Huzoor asserted, Hazrat Amirul Momineen went on to advise, “I have no doubt that if the members of Waqf‐e‐ Nau are able to collectively follow his example “You should understand that even though you even to a very small degree they will be able to are living in a Western society, you must live your bring about a spiritual and moral revolution in lives in an Islamic way seeking to attain the the world.” pleasure of Allah the Almighty. You must resolutely keep hold of your religious values and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V highlighted Prophet traditions. You must bring about those pious Abraham (peace be upon him) as a role model for changes in your life that will enable you to fulfil the Waqf‐e‐Nau to emulate. Referring to chapter 53, the rights of Allah the Almighty and His Creation. verse 38 of the Holy Qur’an, Huzoor said, You must always seek to improve and better yourself and to raise your spiritual and moral “This verse means that the Prophet Abraham standards and increase your knowledge.” (peace be upon him) fulfilled the pledge he made to God Almighty with complete obedience and Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad directed the Waqf‐e‐ loyalty and, as a result, was the recipient of the Nau to keep the great personal example of the love of His Creator. Now it is up to all of you to Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) firmly within fulfil the sacred covenant you have made with sight at all times. He said, Allah the Almighty. To do so is not an easy or simple thing. The pledge of a life devotee and of “During his life, the Promised Messiah (peace be a Waqf‐e‐Nau is a vast and everlasting upon him) devoted his every day and every night undertaking. It is to give away your life for the for the sake of Islam. Till his final breath, every sake of your faith.” moment of the Promised Messiah’s (peace be upon him) life was spent in fulfilling his divine Explaining how Waqf‐e‐Nau families should mission to revive and spread the true teachings endeavour to achieve and act by the true spirit of Islam throughout the world.” of Waqf, rather than being proud over mere titles, Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 40 WAQFE NAU IJTEMAS Huzoor Aqdas pointed out, Hazrat Amirul Momineen listed many attributes that should be displayed in the character of a Waqf‐e‐ “As I have said many times, just holding the title Nau including the display of good manners, remaining of Waqf‐e‐Nau is meaningless. It becomes humble and the showing of care and love to near meaningful when a member of Waqf‐e‐Nau ones. Placing particular importance on maintaining a understands the demands of their pledge and high standard of worship, Huzoor instructed, faithfully strives to fulfil it to the best of their abilities.” “You must be diligent in offering Salat in congregation and you should recite the Holy And continued, Qur’an every day. Only then can you call yourself a true Waqf‐e‐Nau. Alongside the obligatory “Therefore, if someone informs me that he, his prayers, the older Waqf‐e‐Nau boys should offer wife and children are all Waqf‐e‐Nau they should Nafl (voluntary) prayers regularly. Only then can realise that this alone means nothing until and you call yourself a true Waqf‐e‐Nau.” unless they solemnly strive to reach the high standards of obedience required by the Promised Concluding his address, Hazrat Amirul Momineen Messiah (peace be upon him).” prayed, “May Allah the Almighty enable all of you to understand your duties and responsibilities and to fulfil the demands of Waqf in the very best “You should never sit back in way. May Allah the Almighty enable you to continue to increase your knowledge and contentment merely because your understanding of your faith.” name is included in the list of the Waqf‐e‐Nau. Rather, you must And, understand the scale of your “May He grant you the capability to elevate your responsibilities and your moral and spiritual standards and may He everlasting obligation to your faith. enable you to continually increase your service to At all times, it is your duty to the Jama’at and to fulfil your pledge with true sincerity. Ameen.” better your moral standards and to increase your religious The event was brought to a close with a silent prayer knowledge.” led by His Holiness. (Adapted from a press release issued by the Press & Media Office of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at.) Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 WAQFE NAU IJTEMAS 41 Photos from Waqfe Nau Ijtema – Sunday 7th April 2019 “May Allah the Almighty enable all of you to understand your duties and responsibilities and to fulfil the demands of Waqf in the very best way. May Allah the Almighty enable you to continue to increase your knowledge and understanding of your faith.” (Hazrat Khalifatl Masih V) Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 42 PROMISED MESSIAH(as) DAY PROMISED MESSIAH (Peace be upon him) DAY Promised Messiah Days were held all over the country on the 22nd and 23rd of March. In London a Regional event took place at the Baitul Futuh Mosque on the 23rd immediately after Asr prayers at 5.30 pm. It began with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an of verses 1‐5 from Surah Juma by Mr Fazl Ahmad Tahir after which verses from a poem of the Promised Messiah (peace be on him) were recited by Mr Abdul Hayee Sarmad. and America. This is illustrated by the fact that The first speech was delivered by Maulana Zeeshan lectures about him were actually delivered here in the Khalid on the topic of The mission of the Promised UK. For example Rev. Dr Harvey Griswold alone Messiah (peace be upon him). In this the speaker delivered two such lectures. The first in 1902 on The explained how the advent of the Promised Messiah Mahdi Messiah of Qadian, and the second on The (peace be upon him) took place in accordance with Messiah of Qadian – a paper presented to the Victoria the prophecy of the Holy Prophet (peace and Institute on 15th May 1905. blessings of Allah be upon him) as indicated by the Qur’anic verses of surah Juma that had been recited It was the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) and the subsequent conversation with the who on 7th December, twenty days before the second Companions. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings Jalsa Salana, issued a pamphlet in which he outlined of Allah be upon him) had explained that when Iman the objectives of the Jalsa Salana and also mentioned (faith) would have ascended to the Pleiades, a man that in this Jalsa Salana we should examine ways to from these (placing his hand on the shoulder of improve the religious/spiritual condition of the Salman the Persian) would restore it to the earth. people of Europe and America. His meetings with The next speaker was Maulana Raheel Ahmad. His such individuals as DD Dixon and Professor Clement topic was ‘Rising of the Sun from the West and the Raig showed how passionate he was to witness the Message of the Promised Messiah to the West.’ In this fulfilment of the prophecy of the Holy Prophet (peace the speaker described the innumerable services for and blessings of Allah be upon him) that the sun will Islam rendered by the Promised Messiah (peace be rise from the West. upon him). He had valiantly promoted the teachings There was a short interlude from the main subject of Islam throughout his life. He was the one, when of the Jalsa at this point, when Secretary Jaidad UK Muslim divines were lost in slumber and Christians Mr Irfan Quraishi, gave an update on the were daring to dream of planting the flag of reconstruction project of Baitul Futuh. Then Regional Christendom in Makkah and Medina, who rose to Amir Naseer Dean briefed the members on the 10 defend the honour of Islam. With the Jihad of the pen Mosque project for London and Maulana Naseem he shook the foundations of Christianity. News of his Bajwa urged members to participate fully in this efforts reached the shores of Great Britain, Europe endeavour. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 PROMISED MESSIAH(as) DAY 43 The programme resumed with a recitation of a poison the minds of our children he admonished. poem by Mr Usman Ahmad after which the Amir UK What is the standard in our treatment of our children gave the concluding address. In this he drew from a and of our spouses he asked. All these are important recent sermon of Huzoor Aqdas and mentioned how considerations because what we do today, our Hazrat Nizamudin came to accept the Promised children will follow tomorrow. Cleanse your hearts of Messiah (peace be upon him) because he was pious all kinds of ill feeling he urged. If you forgive anyone, and basically good natured. He may have been an then do not harbour a grudge against them. We have Arab from a staunch non‐Ahmadi family but did not the examples of our Khulafa before us. We should care about the opposition that would be unleashed. develop an atmosphere of love and affection in our Amir Sahib expressed his dismay at the attitude of homes. We are extremely fortunate to have the some non‐Ahmadi Muslims against the Jama’at. blessed institution of Khilafat among us and the least Despite the fact that the advent of the Promised we can do is to listen attentively to Huzoor’s sermon Messiah (peace be upon him) was in accordance with and urge our children to do the same. After this, Amir the prophecy of the Holy Prophet (peace and Sahib brought the proceedings to a close by leading blessings of Allah be upon him) and he attained everyone in a silent prayer. prophethood through his absolute belief and The attendance was 2,200 in total of which 1,250 subservience to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings were men and 950 were ladies. of Allah be upon him), opponents do not desist from Promised Messiah Days were also held in other persisting in their opposition and oppression. Amir Jama’ats. In Gillingham for instance, speakers focussed Sahib then again turned to the sermons of Huzoor in on various aspects of the life of the Promised Messiah which he had described the conduct expected of an (peace be upon him) at a gathering in the Nasir Ahmadi. Does he regularly offer his five daily prayers? Mosque of 120 on the 24th of March. A day earlier 52 Does he abide by all the commandments of the Holy members of the Nottingham Jama’at met at their local Qur’an? Does he say darood daily? Does he Baitul Hafeez Mosque discussing the Promised demonstrate his absolute allegiance to Khilafat and Messiah’s love for the Holy Qur’an and the Holy urge his children to do likewise? If the answer to these Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). is yes then something has been achieved. If not then this should be a cause of grave concern. Amir Sahib also warned about speaking against office bearers of the Jama’at in the home. This will Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 44 MUSLEH MAUD JALSAS This year once again Musleh Ma’ud Jalsas were held Ikhlaq Anjum on the Achievements of Hazrat Musleh all over the UK in February. On the 24th the London Ma’ud. Maulana Qamr Ahmad Zafar then repeated Regions organised their function at Baitul Futuh after the words of that prayer of Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud Asr prayers. It was attended by a total of 1,750 people which Huzoor Aqdas had mentioned in his recent of which 950 were men and 800 were ladies. Friday sermon. Proceedings began with a recitation of a portion of There was a short break from the main subject of the Holy Qur’an and its translation by Mr Faizan the gathering where a video was shown describing Ahmad Rajpoot. Next Mr Khalid Ahmad Chugtai the redevelopment taking place of the Baitul Futuh presented a few verses from a poem of the Promised complex. Messiah (peace be upon him). In his concluding address Amir Sahib reminded The first speaker was Maulana Raheel Ahmad who members to listen regularly to the sermons of Hazrat read out the words of the Prophecy of the Musleh Amirul Momineen and warned parents to be wary of Ma’ud in its original Urdu before giving its translation the use of mobile phones by their children. Amir in English. Then Maulana Tahir Ahmad Khalid spoke in Sahib then reiterated some of the points made by English on the subject entitled Background to the Huzoor Aqdas in his recent sermon. The event was Prophecy of Musleh Ma’ud and its Importance. finally brought to a close with a silent prayer led by This was followed by an Urdu speech by Maulana Amir Sahib. Other Musleh Ma’ud Jalsas As mentioned other Musleh Ma’ud Jalsas also took place during February in the UK. Listed below are a few of them. DONCASTER In Doncaster 27 members gathered at the Community Hall in Scawsby on 16th February at noon. Proceedings began with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Mr Shoaib Ahmad followed with its translation by Mr Haseeb Ahmad. The first speech was delivered in Urdu by Mr Naseem Ahmad on the subject of the Prophecy of Musleh Ma’ud. This was followed with an English discourse by Maulana Aneeq ur Rehman. The final speech was in English on another aspect of the Prophecy of Musleh Ma’ud. The meeting was brought to a close with a silent prayer after which Zohr prayers were offered followed by Lunch. SHEFFIELD The Sheffield Jama’at organised its Musleh Ma’ud day at its local Baitul Affiyat Mosque on 17th February. Some 85 people were in attendance including 40 men and Atfal and 45 Lajna and Nasirat. Proceedings began at noon with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an and a poem. The words of the Prophecy were then read out in its original Urdu. A number of Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 MUSLEH MAUD JALSAS 45 speeches followed. The first was on ‘Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud In the Eyes of Non‐Ahmadis’ followed by another discourse in English on ‘Different Aspects of the Character of Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud’. Murabi Sahib gave an address in Urdu after which the proceedings were brought to a close at 1.30 pm with a silent prayer. Zohr and Asr prayers followed after which food was served to all. ALDERSHOT On Wednesday 20th February, 90 members of the Aldershot Jama’at including men, women and children gathered for the Musleh Ma’ud Day at the Crondall Village Hall in Farnham. Proceedings commenced with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an and a poem after which the actual words of the Prophecy were read out. Maulana Hafiz Tayyab Ahmad was the first speaker. He expounded on the topic of ‘Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud’s Services For the Youth of The Jama’at’. This speech was in English and was followed with an Urdu talk by Mr Mahmood Malik who spoke on ‘Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud’s Life At Home & Kindness to Women’. The proceedings concluded with a silent prayer led by Maulana Abdul Majeed Sialkoti. BIRMINGHAM WEST One hundred and fifty six people congregated at the Baitul Ghafoor Mosque on Wednesday 20th February for the Musleh Ma’ud Jalsa. Speeches were delivered by Maulana Aqueel Sahib and Dr Abdul Rahim focusing on the life and achievements of Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud. MOSQUE EAST In addition to Musleh Ma’ud Days held at the Regional level in London some Jama’ats also convened to hold this locally as well. The Mosque East Jama’at drew a gathering of 125 at its event at the Fazl Mosque on 20th February. After the preliminaries, the Prophecy was read out in English after which Dr Tariq Bajwa spoke on the Achievements of Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud. The meeting lasted for an hour and ended with a silent prayer. NOTTINGHAM The Nottingham Jama’at held a Musleh Ma’ud Day at its Baitul Hafeez Mosque on the evening of Wednesday 20th February. 56 people attended. Proceedings started at 7 pm with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an and a poem. Three speeches followed. The first was in Urdu and dealt with the actual prophecy after which a speech was delivered on the Life and Achievements of Hazrat Musleh Ma’ud. The final speech drew attention of the members to our responsibilities in relation to this grand prophecy. A short Q&A session followed after which a silent prayer brought the proceedings to a close at 8.15 pm. WALTON ON THAMES Forty five people gathered for the Musleh Ma’ud Jalsa organised by the Walton on Thames Jama’at on Sunday 3rd March . The venue was the Hersham Centre in Hersham village. Maulana Mansoor Ahmad Zia addressed the audience on the Prophecy of Musleh Ma’ud elaborating on its impact and fulfilment. Proceedings had begun with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an immediately after Mughrib prayers and concluded with Isha prayers and dinner afterwards. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 46 UK NEWS ANNUAL DINNER TI COLLEGE OLD STUDENTS ASSOCIATION UK The annual dinner of the acknowledged the financial Talimul Islam College Old sacrifices made by Students Association members towards its (TICOSA) took place on 31st cause. Maulana Ataul March 2019. Mujeeb Rashed then There had been addressed the event. In his extensive planning for the speech he further event and an elaborate elaborated on the efforts photographic display had of TICOSA and drew the been put up on one part of attention of the audience the Tahir Hall. A section for of the importance of the ladies was also organised. Khilafat and how vital it was for it to remain a Members started to come in after Asr prayers. At 6 guiding light for TICOSA’s progress in the future. pm a preliminary session was started off with a There was an interlude at this stage during which basketball match. It was enjoyed by spectators and an absorbing bait baazi competition took place. This participants alike and keenly contested, but ended was between two teams, one led by Mr Asif Ali up in a draw. Pervaiz and the other by Mr Hafiz Masood Ahmad. The main proceedings began at 7 pm under the This too, like the Basketball match, ended up in a chairmanship of Dr Iftikhar Ahmad Ayaz with a draw. recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Dr Tariq Ahmad Maghrib prayers followed after which everyone Bajwa. The President of TICOSA UK, Mr Mubarik convened again in the Tahir Hall for the final session. Ahmad Siddiqi then presented his annual report This was chaired by the Amir UK Mr Rafiq Ahmed covering the activities of the Association during the Hayat. Proceedings commenced with a recitation year after which Mr Bashir Ahmad Akhtar gave a from the Holy Qur’an by Mr Naseer Shah followed detailed account of his visit to Africa and the with a poem by Mr Ataul Aala Zafar. In his address, primary school there which had been established by Amir Sahib spoke about the efforts of TICOSA UK. He TICOSA UK. Next Dr Abdul Bary Malik spoke on the encouraged them further and expressed his achievements of TICOSA UK. appreciation of what they had achieved. In his speech Dr Ayaz, reminded members of the Distribution of prizes took place next after which a purpose and objectives of the Association. He also photo session took place and dinner was served. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 UK NEWS 47 PAAMA National Ijtema 2019by Ahad Bhunno The third PAAMA National Ijtema was held on Saturday 30th March 2019. The theme for the Ijtema was “Brotherhood” as chosen by Huzoor. Simultaneous events for Lajna, Nasirat, Ansar, Khuddam, and Atfal in academic and sporting competitions took place in the Baitul Futuh complex as well as the adjoining park. Despite the logistic complexities involved, 158 men and boys and 148 women and girls, successfully participated in a wide variety of programmes during the day. The Ijtema started with registration, breakfast and a combined Opening Session for all members following which academic competitions commenced across all Tanzeemat and ages groups. Lunch after combined Zuhr and Asr prayers were followed by sporting events and activities. By the Grace of Allah, all key events were concluded successfully, thanks largely to the hard work and dedication of the Ijtema Committee. It is noteworthy that despite receiving the sad news of the demise of her mother in Nigeria that same morning, Mrs Faosat Sanni, the Head of Lajna of PAAMA UK, decided nevertheless to attend the proceedings. The concluding session was chaired by Mr Rafiq Hayat, Amir UK, who presented prizes to the winners, as well as the Ismael B.K. Addo Awards to those members who had attained excellence in their academic education. In his Ijtema Report, Mr Tommy Kallon, President PAAMA UK expressed his profound gratitude to Huzoor for his approval to hold this Ijtema and for all his immense love and continued guidance to the Association. Peterborough Vigil – By Hasib Zafar Majlis Peterborough arranged a solidarity event in response to the attacks in New Zealand that had taken place on 15th March. All members including families gathered in the Peterborough town centre. The Mayor of Peterborough, other Muslim and non Muslim community representatives and a few from the local council also attended. The event was covered by the local newspaper, two radio stations and two you tube channels including one Arabic channel. Mosque Open Day – By Fatihul Haq, President Huddersfield South The Huddersfield South Jama’at organised a Mosque Open Day on 9th March 2019 at Bait us Samad. Members from all walks of life including the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire David Dinmore and other faith leaders attended. The local Jama’at President said: “Our moto is love for all and hatred for none, we aim to build a relationship of trust, friendship and respect across the communities and show the true and peaceful face of Islam through this initiative.” Visitors were able to view exhibitions, go on mosque tours, discuss various aspects of the teachings of Islam with members of the Jama’at as well as take away with them informative books and other literature including translations of the Holy Qur’an. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 48 UK NEWS Hartlepool Mosque Open Day (By Farhan Ali Tabligh Secretary Hartlepool) On Saturday 30th March 2019 an Open Day was organised at the Nasir Mosque, Hartlepool. In the planning of the event, a lot of work was done to make this programme successful. A very positive campaign of leafleting was undertaken by members of the Hartlepool Jama’at. A special flyer, prepared by Maulana Tahir Selby, was distributed along with the traditional peace leaflet. Members went to many different streets in Hartlepool, especially those around the Mosque and gave out flyers at the town centre. Tabligh Secretary Farhan Ali contacted the public places such as libraries, supermarkets, post office, government organisations and few others where he The Open Day itself ran from 10.00 am till 4.00 pm. advertised the Open Day and put posters on their People began arriving from 9.30 am. By the Grace of advertisement boards. A special banner about the Day Allah 134 guests attended throughout the day with was put up outside the Mosque from the previous the last guest leaving at 4:40 pm. Sunday for one week till the Open Day had concluded. For the purpose of the Open Day the area was An extensive publicity initiative was also organised divided into different zones, with Maulana Tahir Selby on social media in which Facebook and Twitter were staying in the mosque, explaining about it, about the the highlights of the campaign. Hartlepool Alert, Town Qur’an exhibition on display and also the pull‐up of Hartlepool (which gives news around the banners which were also put up inside the Mosque. Hartlepool area), most of the churches in Hartlepool In this way, he was able to explain in detail about the and local organizations featured the Jama’at’s flyer on Mosque, Islamic teachings and the Jama’at. their Facebook page. Local newspapers Hartlepool Then the guests were taken into the library where Mail and Hartlepool Life mentioned the event a week Mr Farhan Ali gave a tour inside the premises, before which was read by thousands of people and explaining the exhibition boards and other books on raised awareness about Islam Ahmadiyyat and the display. Guests were then taken for refreshments and Nasir Mosque in Hartlepool. further talks. The lady guests were guided upstairs to A lot of individual invitations were also handed out the Ladies section of the mosque where the Lajna by Jama’at members. These invitations were given to welcomed these guests and shared refreshments and school teachers, GP, neighbours, nearby shopkeepers, discussions with them. There were also some college teachers and others and some of the contacts exhibition boards on display there. In addition who we met previously during the leafleting. Lajna arrangements for Henna – temporary tattoos ‐ for also actively took part in inviting guests to the event. ladies and children were in place. Many members Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 UK NEWS 49 helped out speaking to the guests. ‘Death on the Cross’, ‘Jesus in India’ and ‘Christianity, Guests were provided on request certain books. Facts to Fiction’ which were duly provided. These included ‘Selected verses of Holy Qur’an’, All the guests who came were very happy to visit the ‘Sayings of Holy Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allah mosque and the feedback received was very positive. be upon Him) ‘ ‘Sayings of Promised Messiah (Peace Many wrote very encouraging remarks promising to be upon Him) ‘ and ‘World Crisis & Pathway to Peace’ visit the mosque again at future events. Some of the and some other free literature. A few requested a comments recorded are listed below: copy of the ‘Holy Qur’an’ while others asked for David J wrote: “Very Interesting and welcoming”. J Scotland wrote: “Very informative & Interesting and met lovely people” Jeff C wrote: “Such a valuable experience which more people should experience. It has separated popular belief from the true “Love for all Hatred for None” way of the religion” Niel B wrote: “Informative, friendly, hospitable and the food was very delicious, thank you”. Amy D wrote: “Very well explained, Food was delicious and people were amazingly courteous, thank you”. Mosque Visits at Baitul Futuh (By Waleed Ahmad) The Baitul Futuh Mosque serves as a beautiful landmark for the capital city. Being the largest mosque in Western Europe it attracts many visitors. Since its inception a special team of tour guides has been formed to receive visitors, show them around and answer questions about the Jama’at and Islam in general. On many an occasion individuals or groups just drop in, while on other occasions people have been more thorough and booked in advance. Interest From Schools & Universities Baitul Futuh, official tour guides are utilised, who are Much interest has been shown by schools and specially trained to avoid such difficulties. Universities over the years. In fact each academic year In the months of March and April this year over a over 4,000 school children visit the building and this thousand school children visited the mosque – 621 number continues to grow. Undergraduate students came in March accompanied by 38 adults and 523 have come from various educational institutions in visited in April with 28 adults. School parties are the UK such as the University of Chichester, Kings provided refreshments, given a tour and informed College, Imperial College, University of East London about the mosque and the Jama’at. Conscious etc, and there has also been interest from abroad as attempts are made to make the visit memorable and far as from the University of Kentucky in the United enjoyable. Long monologues by guides are avoided States who visited a while ago. and an interactive atmosphere is encouraged. It is When visits first started soon after the Mosque was always a challenge to pitch a tour and what is said, at built, guests were taken around on an ad hoc basis by the right level to retain the interest of the children anyone and everyone. This had its limitations and who come – and they come from a wide age range even led to complaints where enthusiasm had got the with some as young as 5. better of those who were escorting. As a result, at Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 50 UK NEWS Finn Visitors The Mosque also receives visits from adult groups. On 18th March seventeen 16‐19 year olds from Helsinki made this Mosque as one of their ‘must see’ sites when coming to the UK. Their tour of the mosque was supplemented with a presentation and a session where their questions were answered. It was a frank exchange and included discussions on Islamophobia, the rise of the far right and the way Islam is perceived in the Nordic countries. Visit from the University of Wales Later on 2nd April the Mosque received a visit from 12 students and 2 lecturers of the University of Wales Dear Waleed, Trinity Saint David. All were religious studies academics and were prepared for an in depth Just a short note to thank you for your hospitality last experience. Tuesday. I am extremely grateful to you for giving us They were received just before Zohr and taken to so much of your time, and it was exceedingly generous observe the prayers from the balcony before being of the mosque to not only feed us but to present both escorted to the dining hall where the Ziafat staff and students with books to take away (I am department served lunch to the party. enjoying working my way through Christianity: A A visit to the bookshop ensued and, being students Journey from Facts to Fiction). We really did have studying religion, a number of purchases were made wonderful afternoon - the students didn't stop talking enthusiastically. about our visit all week! The group then collected in the Library where they As a more formal way of extending our thanks, I have were told about the Jama’at, and in particular about arranged for the University to donate a book to the the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) and mosque's library. It should be with you within the next Khilafat. Questions were taken, including those on few days. LGBT issues, socio political attitudes and matters relating to Islamaphobia. Students were able to view Hopefully, we'll be able to arrange another visit at the exhibition at their leisure before being taken for some point in the near future. In the meantime, please tea and coffee. find attached a handful of photos from last Tuesday's A detailed tour of the mosque was then made. The visit. two lecturers were each presented with a copy of the Thanks once again, translation of the Holy Qur’an and Introduction to the Rhodri study of the Holy Qur’an. The University was given a translation with commentary of the Holy Qur’an. The students did not go empty handed. Each was given a copy of the Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam by Film Interest the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) and The month of April also saw an interest taken by a Huzoor’s book World Crisis and Pathway To Peace. film company called Déjà vu Dubai who sought The party departed at 5.20 pm just before Asr permission to take footage of our Mosques ‐ Baitul prayers. Futuh and Fazl Mosques . This was for the Royal The students and lecturers were demonstrably Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites. The pleased with their visit finding it had far exceeded project was to demonstrate that at any given time their expectations. A note received from their lead during the day, worship of Allah is taking place in a afterwards reflected their feelings (see below) mosque in some part of the world. For London, it was One student is in contact with the Jama’at in Cardiff. the Jama’at’s two mosques that were selected. Her dissertation is on Islamic communities of Wales. Although the footage to be used was no more than She said the part relating to the Jama’at was definitely half an hour, meticulous planning was undertaken by going to be her favourite to do. the Company and huge vans of crew and equipment Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 UK NEWS 51 were brought in. Filming began at 8.00 am on the day The project was completed satisfactorily and the at Baitul Futuh with the entourage shifting to the Fazl finished film had its premiere at a special function Mosque after Zohr. It was the same day that Huzoor convened before the beginning of Ramadan in Saudi Aqdas was leaving for Islamabad. The crew left the Arabia. Fazl Mosque just before 6 pm after a 10 hour effort. EFFECTS OF FASTING STUDY With the onset of Ramadan approaching, Imperial College of the University of London was given permission by the Jama’at to seek candidates for their new research at Baitul Futuh. The study, initiated by a research group from the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics of the College, was to examine the physical effects of fasting on the human body. A separate screened area was provided for the research team in the Tahir Hall at Baitul Futuh. Here readings of blood pressure, height, weight, fat content etc were taken of each of those who volunteered to participate in the study, with similar measurements to be taken at the end of the Ramadan and one possibly in between. A questionnaire was also completed by each volunteer detailing eating habits and any exercise regimes being followed. To define the precise remit and objective of the study, Dr Abbas Dehgan of Imperial wrote: ‘….We are interested in exploring the impact of fasting during the month of Ramadan on health. So far only limited studies have been done to assess the subject. Such studies could evidence potential beneficial effects of fasting. ‘Moreover, it will help physicians to provide evidence‐based recommendations to their patients and identify instances where fasting should be waived. This data will also build a platform on which medical professions could conduct further research.’ This is a pilot study that is being undertaken at present with a much bigger study to follow after these results are reviewed. The research will go on. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 52 UK NEWS Visit to Baitul Futuh – (By Muhammad Usama) Two non‐Ahmadi guests attended the Baitul Futuh mosque for the Friday sermon on 12th April. One was from Morocco and the other from Iraq. They were pleasantly received, given a tour of the mosque and provided with some books. They were also treated to a meal. Mr Rafq Arif of the national Tabligh team facilitated this meeting. The visitors were overjoyed and promised to visit again. European Football Tournament Majlis‐e‐Sehat UK organiszed the second European The final was played between Football Tournament in London on 19th, 20th and Germany A and UK A. It was 21st April. The event started on Friday with an tightly contested match with opening session that took place in Baitul Futuh. chances on both sides, but it Teams taking part were then divided into 3 groups was Germany who prevailed with a single goal. All as follows: the matches were played in a good spirit. The closing session was presided by Amir Sahib UK who Group A: UK A, Germany A, Germany B, Bulgaria had given his full support to the event by Group B: UK B, PAAMA, Fazle Umar, Denmark, addressing the opening session, watching some of Sweden the play and giving the concluding address. Group C: Jamia UK, Ireland, Belgium, Holland, The highlight of the event was a photo session Jamia Germany with Huzoor Anwar and a full report of the tournament will be published in the next edition. Over the course of Saturday and Sunday all of the By the Grace of Allah all arrangements and the Group Stage matches and quarter finals were matches went smoothly and there were no serious played at the Surrey Sports Park. Each game issues. The organisers plan to repeat the event consisted of 40 minutes and in total 30 Matches again next year – only this time it is expected that were played. On Monday 22nd April the semi finals many more teams will be invited and the and final took place at the Carshalton FC Stadium. tournament will be much bigger than before inshallah. Semi Final 1: Germany A vs UK B Score was 3‐0 Semi Final 2: UK A vs PAAMA score was 4‐0 The prizes awarded were as follows: Player of the Tournament: Omar Nija (Germany A) Golden Boot: Ahmad Butt (Holland) Golden Glove: Rameez Ahmed (Germany A) Fair Play Award: Denmark Runners‐up: UK A Winners of the Ahmadiyya European Football Tournament 2019: Germany A Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 UK NEWS 53 Working in Our main service is at Quaker Friends London and need Meeting House, serving to know where to the City of London offer Jumuah where daily Zuhr prayers are also offered prayers ? NAMAZ Monday - Thursday. DAILY ZUHR NAMAZ SERVICE Monday/Tues/Weds and Thurs at Bunhill Meeting Room Bunhill Meeting House Quaker Court, Banner Street, at 1330 promptly. London EC1Y 8QQ. Contact Kaleem Edwards on 07973 782 807 or email www.quaker.org.uk/meetings/bunhill‐fields [email protected] average attendance 8‐12 FRIDAY JUMUA OPTIONS (IN ORDER OF SIZE OF CONGREGATION) Bunhill Meeting House Quaker Court, Banner Green Park – Green Park centre's address is no Street, London EC1Y 8QQ longer at EME Capital. 1.15pm at St James’s Bunhill Meeting House can be found through a Church, 197 Piccadilly, London W1J 9LL rectangular archway off Banner Street, (see ‘Bunhill Venue booking in the name of AMA UK, starting Meeting House’ sign) a short walk from Old Street from 1pm to 2pm in ‘The Meeting Room’. The sign Underground station. ‘AMA Friday Congregation’ will be displayed on the railings where members will enter. www.quaker.org.uk/meetings/bunhill‐fields Contact: Mansur Mannan on 07920 008 939 or First Adhan from 13:10 • Khutba from 13:15 and email mansur@dar‐capital.com salaat at 13:30 – (we aim to finish about 13:40) Average attendance 30‐40 Contact: Kaleem Edwards on 07973 782 807 or email: [email protected] Average attendance 30‐40 Docklands – 5 mins from South Quay station on Imperial College with the students (term time DLR which is couple of stops from Canary Wharf – only) – Chaplaincy Multi‐Faith Centre, 10 Prince's Island House Community Centre, Roserton St, Gardens, London SW7 1NA. Located in the Multi‐ London E14 3PG Faith Centre of Imperial College. First Adhan from 13:00 • Second Adhan from 13:10 www3.imperial.ac.uk/chaplaincy/contactus Khutba from 13:15. From South Kensington tube station it is about a 10 www.island‐house.org.uk/ minute walk. Out of the turnstiles turn right and enter and follow the tunnel till the end and then Contact: Imran Yusuf on 07881 019 878 or email turn left. Keep walking down, past the big glass [email protected] building of Imperial College. Turn right onto Prince’s There is a whatsapp group for members Gardens. The Centre is no.11, past the Ethos gym. Average attendance 12‐20 If you are coming please text beforehand so we can allow you into the building, or update you if there has been a change of time. This is essential, as sometimes the time is shifted according to the UCL University College London with the students availability of students. (term time only) Contact: Arsam Mahmood on 07480 852 110 or ** sadly this service is no longer active** email [email protected] Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 54 RAMADAN 54 Ramadhan Harnessing the Blessings of Ramadan By the Grace of Allah we have entered the month of Ramadan once again. This is a blessed period and it is important to derive the maximum benefit from it. In an inspirational sermon delivered on 19th June 2015, Hadhrat Amirul Momineen Khalifatul Masih V presented a comprehensive discourse on how best this could be achieved. We reproduce herewith a summary of this sermon. To gain maximum benefit from Hudhur’s sermons it is strongly advised that it is listened to in its entirety. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April/May 2019 RAMADAN 55 he Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be abiding by God’s commandment and has weakness of on him) said that there is an hour on Friday when faith. How can one go on to complain that one’s prayers Twhatever a true believer supplicates gains are not answered! Those who are restless to come in acceptance by God. And he told us about Ramadan that the refuge of God need to spend their time praying with during this month doors to Paradise are opened while extreme humbleness and humility by acknowledging doors to Hell are shut. God’s grace and mercy is their shortcomings. Some people assume that God particularly stirred in Ramadan and true believers are comes closer to man during Ramadan so praying during showered with blessings. Indeed the Holy Prophet this month is sufficient. This is a misleading thought. (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said there are One should seek God’s closeness with complete and some conditions to attract God’s grace. One should utter humility. Indeed, God is Ever‐Present but man can shun idle, vulgar matters and chaos, eschew using only gain nearness to God when he abandons all else abusive language and getting involved in altercations except God and turns only to Him with humility. It and should respond to all evil with: I am fasting and I should be understood very well that the objective can am eschewing all this for the sake of God. This would only be attained with righteousness and piety leading make one fast in the true spirit. us to enjoy personal as well as communal fruits of God has tied the significance of Ramadan with success that God has destined. acceptance of prayer in the following verse, Man does wrong and man sins but as long as he has fear of God and acknowledges his wrongs and has ‘And when My servants ask thee about Me, say: ‘I righteousness, God covers his sins and wrongs and am near. I answer the prayer of the supplicant when ultimately enables him to repent. We should pray he prays to Me. So they should hearken to Me and during Ramadan for ourselves, our near and dear ones believe in Me, that they may follow the right way.’ and for members of the Jama’at that may everyone (2:187). attain righteousness and fear of God. If we pray for each other with compassion angels will join in our prayers. Thus stressing the blessedness of Ramadan by placing What is righteousness? It is fear of God and as long this verse directly after the verse regarding Ramadan as we have righteousness God will cover our and tying in acceptance of prayer with fasting during shortcomings and our sins unless we become so the holy month. Fridays during Ramadan are of audacious that fear of God leaves us when committing enhanced significance but God has not pinpointed the sin! If weakness leads us to sin but is followed by fear hour during Friday when supplications gain acceptance, of God, God forgives us. Fear of God is love of God and thus emphasising that supplications should be made as long as we have it we will be saved from ruination. night and day. Indeed, it is conditional that this love is true love. God Generally speaking during Ramadan God puts Satan knows what is in hearts and none can deceive Him. in fetters, opens doors to Paradise and comes closer to Thus, owing to God’s love if we stumble and then pick man. On top of this, Fridays during Ramadan should be ourselves up and follow His commandments, God fully availed of. The main prayer of a believer should be keeps His sense of honour for our love for Him and does made with humility to be included among those whose not let us go to waste and enables us to repent. prayers of night and day are accepted all the time and However, if man discards the very essence of not only in Ramadan; so that one may be permanently righteousness and rejects it, he is punished. guided. The verses preceding 2:187 state that earlier We are most fortunate that we accepted the people also fasted, but this is not the impetus for Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) who repeatedly fasting. The impetus for fasting is to adopt told us to abide us by righteousness. After him we have righteousness and avoid spiritual and moral been given a spiritual system [of Khilafat] which weaknesses. Chapter 2 verse187 states, reminds us time and again regarding the essence of ‘…may follow the right way.’ righteousness. Indeed, Ramadan too comes each year This signifies having correct morals and maturity of to nourish and sustain this essence. Everyone should senses on a permanent basis. Ramadan is a month of try and avail the beneficence of this sacred month and countless blessings but these blessings are given to become servant of God. If due to our shortcomings and those who follow the commandments of God and failings God delays acceptance of our prayers it is like enhance in faith. If one only offers Friday Prayers during when a mother momentarily shows her displeasure in Ramadan and does not carry on afterwards, one is not order to correct her child. But when the child realises Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 56 RAMADAN his fault and goes to the mother, she embraces him. Our God is always ready to forgive providing we are Indeed, God’s love is greater than a mother’s love. He also ready to be forgiven. Any negligence is on our part. is ever looking out for man to repent so that God may God’s forgiveness covers the person who turns to God forgive him. and seeks forgiveness for his sins. Hadhrat Musleh The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on Ma’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) said not only him) said that man’s repentance pleases God more God’s forgiveness covers one’s sins but it also forgets than a person who finds his lost she‐camel in the sin/wrongdoing and makes people forget it too. wilderness. If man turns to God with the intention to This is why one of God’s name is Sattar (Coverer of repent during Ramadan, God runs to that person. The faults). This Divine attribute signifies an intense quality Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) to cover other’s faults. People can cover faults and sins said God says if man comes one span nearer to Me, I of others but they cannot make people forget them go one yard closer to him and if he comes one hand whereas God can remove the memory of sins span closer to Me, I go a distance of two hand spans committed by people from the minds of others. If God and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running. was not Sattar man would not even have peace in Thus if man does not avail of so many ways and means Paradise. Our God not only covers our faults He also that God has put in place to seek His pleasure then it is effaces our sins and restores our respect. How much nothing but man’s own hard‐heartedness. sacrifice should we be making to go to such a Loving We cannot imagine or indeed explain the love God God, to become His servant and indeed to run to Him! has for us. Indeed the aforementioned hadith creates Satan waylays at every corner but we will contend a most excellent concept of God’s love, yet it is not with him and fail his every attack by coming into God’s possible for us to really encompass God’s love. Our refuge. Becoming a true servant of God will be truly knowledge is weak and limited; we cannot even know availing the blessed month of Ramadan. It will benefit what is in hearts of other people. Describing this us on a personal as well as communal level. Progress of Hadhrat Musleh Ma’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) members of Jama’at translates into progress of Jama’at. said we cannot even understand the works of God, how We know that the Promised Messiah (on whom be could we understand His love! The Holy Prophet (peace peace) said his progress and triumph was through and blessings of Allah be on him) tried to explain God’s prayers. Thus we should turn to God and seek progress love to us through examples and analogies. of our Jama’at and pray fervently during these days. We When the enemy was completely defeated in the should not limit our prayers to ourselves and our near Battle of Badr and prominent and daring disbelievers and dear ones. Rather we need to intensively widen the were whipping their mounts to retreat from the scope of our prayers, then alone will we be paying the frontline a woman was found fearlessly going around dues of being part of the Jama’at of the Promised the battlefield. She would pick up any child she saw and Messiah (on whom be peace) and we should be then put it down. The Holy Prophet (peace and grateful to the favour of God of including us in the blessings of Allah be on him) said, this woman has lost Jama’at. God has placed a huge responsibility on us as her child. Motherly love was so overwhelming that she Ahmadis for which the Promised Messiah (on whom be had no fear of being in the middle of a destruction filled peace) drew attention of his Jama’at to prayers. We are battlefield and hugged every child she saw and then let indeed humble and weak and acknowledge our go realising it was not hers. Eventually the woman incompetence. However, we are the people on whom found her child, she embraced him and with complete God has placed the responsibility to attain a abandon sat down with him with no thought of the magnificent objective which is not possible without His dangers around her or indeed the dead bodies and the grace. fact that battle had not quite ceased. The Holy Prophet In this regard Hadhrat Musleh Ma’ud (may Allah be (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said, you see pleased with him) said if we are in fact weak and the with such satisfaction she sat down once she found her task assigned to us is very difficult then how can we do child while beforehand she was extremely anxious. It is this task? This task requires a lot of power to bring it to the same with God and His love for man. God is as completion while we are weak. It will have to be grieved as the mother of the missing child when a acknowledged that either we are not that weak or this person is lost due to his mistakes or sins. And when that task is not as difficult as it is claimed. Or if both these person repents and returns to God, God is happier than statements are correct and we are weak and this task the woman who found her lost child. is difficult then it will have to be acknowledged that Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 RAMADAN 57 “If Ramadhanman turns to God with the intention to repent during Ramadan, God runs to that person. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said God says if man comes one span nearer to Me, I go one yard closer to him and if he comes one hand span closer to Me, I go a distance of two hand spans and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running.” besides our efforts God has put other sources in place We should especially pray a lot during these days of for the task to be completed. It is God Who is going to Ramadan for the triumph of Islam. May we become like fulfil the objective and Islam Ahmadiyyat is going to the handful of pebbles of Badr. May God overlook our triumph in any which way, there is no doubt negligence and mistakes and make such arrangements whatsoever in this. And for the attainment of this God that we attain our objective. May our negligence never has taught us the means of prayer. Our task will not be a source of joy for others and with His grace, may come to completion through our efforts alone although God strengthen our weak hands to do the task that in obedience with God’s will we are ever ready for needs doing. Prayers should be made for oneself, for sacrifice. We pray to God that with His grace He helps each other and for the progress of Jama’at and for the us through His hidden sources which He has willed. enemy to fail and lose out and for the manifestation of The fact is that God has made us the apparent source God’s majesty and glory! The world is fast denying the whereas the real source which will bring about triumph existence of God, may it recognise God. May God is something else. However, we should have a certain forgive our mistakes and instil such strength within us heart‐felt passion for the triumph of Islam which should availing which we can make Islam triumphant over all manifest in the form of prayers. Hadhrat Musleh Ma’ud other world religions. May each one of us become a (may Allah be pleased with him) said an analogy of our sincere servant of Islam and may worldly desires situation can be drawn to when during the Battle of become secondary for us. May our hearts be effusive Badr the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be to uphold faith and to utilise all our capacities for this on him) threw a handful of pebbles at the enemy but purpose. May God so strengthen our actions and our God stated that what followed was not due to his capacities that the enemy’s strength is disgraced by throwing pebbles rather it was from God that a fierce comparison! Not only may God forgive our faults but wind started which blew off millions of pebbles from also instil abhorrence for sin in our hearts and may we the ground in the eyes of the disbelievers. That is, never break His commandments and be included behind the handful of pebbles thrown by the Holy among those who abide by His commandments and Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was perfect their faith! May we love piety and everything working God’s power. We too are like the pebbles of good and may righteousness be instilled in us firmly! Badr, the pebbles which the fierce wind blew off May love and ardour of God become our sustenance blinding the disbelievers. We have to acknowledge that and may our every word and deed be in accordance God has put other arrangements in place to bring about with God’s pleasure and when we present ourselves the triumph of Islam and those arrangements are before Him, may He grant us His pleasure. May God prayers of God’s servants which attract God’s grace and make us truly attain all of this during this Ramadan! turn the impossible into the possible. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said indeed this is what our success depends upon. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 58 HISTORICAL QUESTION AND ANSWER Historical QUESTION & ANSWER Session with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV May Allah have mercy on him Question & Answer with Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV (Allah have mercy on him) on 18th November 1995, in the Mahmood Hall, London. QUESTIONER: We Christians believe in the second advent of Jesus son of Mary. I understand that Muslims also believe in the second advent of Jesus son of Mary. How do you explain that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, whom you believe to be the Promised Messiah, when he is not Jesus son of Mary? [Mrs Sheila Yasmin] Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 HISTORICAL QUESTION AND ANSWER 59 Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad: re‐lived Jesus in Islam by changing the attitude I can explain this in the words of Jesus son of Mary which he (Jesus) had changed earlier, by presenting himself. After all, his should be the last word on this an example like the example of Jesus Christ himself. issue. When it was demanded from him to produce What he had done is to change attitude. Instead of Elijah, the prophet of God who had ascended to emphasising of swords and forceful conversion, the heavens sitting in his fiery chariot, the one who was emphasis was on sacrifice – if someone strikes you to come again before the coming of Christ – what on one cheek offer the other one. This is also a was his answer? He referred to John the Baptist, biblical teaching; the window of forgiveness was explaining that he was the Elijah, not Elijah, but the kept open but practically kept shut by the people. So Elijah, the one you were expecting. It is up to you to he practically shut the window of vengeance and believe it or not. He was not named Elijah – his revenge, and widened the window of forgiveness to name was John, son of Zacharia, not born of the a degree. He said: If somebody strikes you, be same parents as the previous Elijah. All names patient, persevere; if somebody abuses you, don’t differed. call him bad names but pray for him. So this is how The prophecy apparently and in fact rather very he was Jesus son of Mary, in spirit and in attitude. clearly depicted of the physical bodily re‐appearance of Elijah from the heavens. So how would you rate the decision of Jesus Christ in this regard? Will he taken to be right in declaring John the Baptist (as Elijah) despite having no commonality between him and the other Elijah; was he right in passing this judgment? If you say “Yes he was right”, then by the same judgment Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian is proved to be right. The meaning is that the second “So if Mirza Ghulam coming of such people, when they are promised to Ahmad of Qadian is taken come again, never come back as the same person. to be wrong in declaring They would have different parents, different name, him to be the son of Mary and a different position in time and history. But they always come in the spirit, character, teaching, and in this understanding of style of the previous person. So if Mirza Ghulam the term, then you have Ahmad of Qadian is taken to be wrong in declaring to reject not one Messiah him to be the son of Mary in this understanding of but both of them, the term, then you have to reject not one Messiah but both of them, unfortunately. Either you keep unfortunately. Either you both, or you reject both, because the verdict is keep both, or you reject passed and it would not permit you to separate both, because the verdict between one Messiah and the other. is passed and it would not These are metaphorical expressions in which permit you to separate prophecies are made in regard to specific, particular persons, and they are not made only in Judaic between one Messiah and religion or in Islam alone – they have been made all the other. “ over the world but literally they have not got fulfilled even once in the entire history of mankind. Metaphorically yes, all the prophecies have been fulfilled. So you have to judge the claim of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in line with the claims of all such people appearing everywhere in the world in the name of earlier holy people who had claimed to reappear. So we do not believe he was a reincarnation of Jesus – what we believe is that he Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 60 CHILDRENS PAGES Children’s Stories The Hare and the Tortoise The hare was once boasting of his speed before the other animals. “I have never yet been beaten,” said he, “when I go off at full speed. I challenge any one here to race with me.” The tortoise said quietly, “I accept your challenge.” “That is a good joke,” said the hare; “I could dance round you all the way.” “Keep your boasting until you’ve won the race,” answered the tortoise. “Shall we race?” So a course was fixed and a start was made. The hare darted almost out of sight at once, but soon stopped and, to show his contempt for the tortoise, lay down to have a nap. The tortoise plodded on and plodded on, and when the hare awoke from his nap, he saw the tortoise just near the winning‐post and could not run up in time to save the race. The tortoise turned round to the hare and said: “Plodding wins the race.” King Solomon and the baby Two women were arguing over a baby, each one saying that the baby was hers. They went to the court of King Solomon for a decision. The King could not really decide who was the real mother, and he did not want to make a wrong decision and deprive the real mother of her child. After some time, he came up with a plan ‐ he told the ladies that since both of them wanted the child, the only way to satisfy them was to cut the baby in half, and giving half to the one and half to the other. The first woman agreed with the King: “Let the baby be neither mine nor hers, but divide it. If I can't have the child’, she cried, “she can't have it either”. The second woman pleaded with the King not to hurt the child. “Give her the baby. I'd rather lose the child that see it slain’. Solomon knew immediately that this was the rightful mother. He returned the baby to her. AUXILIARY WEBSITES Lajna.org.uk • Nasirat.org.uk www.khuddam.org.uk • atfal.org.uk Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 CHILDRENS PAGES 61 P U Z Z L E S AND JOKES! CODE BREAKERS AND SECRET MESSAGES In the grid below, each letter of the alphabet corresponds to a number, eg A=1, M=13 etc. Using this grid, 3 secret messages have been given below. Try to work out what the messages are. A B C D E F G H I J K L M 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 15 14 5 7 15 15 4 20 21 18 14 4 5 19 5 18 22 5 19 1 14 15 20 8 5 18 13 1 11 4 8 1 25 23 8 9 12 5 20 8 5 19 21 14 19 8 9 14 5 19 1 6 18 9 5 14 4 9 14 14 5 5 4 9 19 1 6 18 9 5 14 4 9 14 4 5 5 4 RIDDLES What kind of dress can never be worn? ‐ An address. What starts with an 'E', ends with an 'E', and only has one letter in it? ‐ An envelope. What bet can never be won? ‐ The Alphabet. What kind of coat can you put on only when it's wet? ‐ A coat of paint. What flies around all day but never goes anywhere? ‐ A flag. KNOCK-KNOCK JOKES! Knock, Knock. Knock, Knock. Knock, Knock. Who’s there? Who’s there? Who’s there? King Tut. Noah. Cook. King Tut who? Noah who? Cook who? King Tut‐key fried chicken! Noah good place we can Hey! Who are you calling cuckoo? get something to eat? Knock, Knock. Knock, Knock. Knock, Knock. Who’s there? Who’s there? Knock, knock! Orange. Anee. Who’s there? Orange who? Anee,who? Ketchup. Orange you going to let me in? Anee one you like! Ketchup who? Ketchup with me and I’ll tell you! Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 62 ANSAR NEWS Round-up of Ansar Tabligh News across the UK EXHIBITION AT BLAKEDOWN AND CHURCHILL VILLAGES By Khalid Ahmad The Birmingham West Majlis Village organised a Tabligh exhibition at the villages of Blakedown and Churchill. Preparations for the event had begun weeks beforehand with a letter requesting Huzoor for prayers and reconnaissance visits taking place to familiarise the organising team with the people that resided there and facilities that could be made available for the Exhibition. A Committee was setup by the local Zaeem who allocated roles for each member. It was felt important to engage with the people of the area beforehand to develop contacts. Tabligh stalls on the High Street were set up regularly and members attended solidarity prayers at the communion of 5 churches which included Blakedown at St Saviours in Hagley where a message of Huzoor Aqdas was read out. Earlier over Christmas and the New Year, season’s greeting cards were distributed to around 550 households as well as various other leaflets like those entitled ‘Peace’, ‘Islam’s Response To Extremism’ and ‘True Islam’. In addition, more recently invitations to the Exhibition were given out, posters were placed on notice boards and post office shops publicising the date and venue of the event. On the day of the Exhibition itself all Ansar from the Majlis were asked to participate. The pop ups put on show included those on the Holy Qur’an, Life of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), Charity Walk for Peace and the Poppy Appeal. Separate stalls were displayed for free literature, Humanity First and Review of Religions magazine. As people came in to view, each was registered provided they had signed the Data Consent form. Those interested were invited to give recorded interviews and Maulana Aqeel Kang was on hand to answer any questions the guests had. Videos introducing the Jama’at and its achievements ran on a loop throughout the duration of the exhibition. In total 16 guests attended including the Pastor from St Saviours. The follow up response from guests was very positive and news of the event was publicised through the social media. LEICESTER TABLIGH CAMPAIGN Majlis Leicester organised a three day Tabligh Campaign which started on 16th April delivering leaflets and invitations to the residents of Groby Village. The invitation was for an Exhibition that the Majlis was setting up later this year. Around 300 invitations were given out in the first day. The main participants included Messrs Chaudry Nasir Ahmad and Hammad Amjad. On the following day a stall was put up in Groby Village where further distribution of leaflets took place. Around 200 were distributed on this day. Posters of the forthcoming event were put at various shops of the village including WH Smiths and the Co Op. People who participated were the local Missionary and Messrs Junaid Masood, Javaid uddin Ahmadi and Hammad Amjad. On day three, the 18th of April, a team of ten Khuddam and Ansar lead by Mr Zartasht participated in distributing over 1100 invites and other leaflets in the southern and western areas of Groby. This day’s efforts concluded with a stall put up in Leicester city centre. Three contacts were made and several discussions took place. In addition two books were given out to those who showed interest. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019 ANSAR NEWS 63 HOLY QUR’AN PRESENTATION On 24th March Mayor of Pontypridd Lynda Davies visited the Bait‐ul‐ Raheem Mosque, Sanatorium Road, Canton, Cardiff. She received a tour of the Mosque and appreciated the efforts of Jama’at members in their struggle for building a mosque and in their efforts to promote peace in the wider Welsh society. She was presented the gift of the Holy Qur’an with English translation by Zaeem Ansarullah Cardiff. She has committed to keep in touch and attend more Jama’at events in future. TABLIGH STALL IN CHEAM – By MA Nasir On Saturday 30th March 2019 Majlis Ansarullah Cheam held a tabligh stall on Sutton High Street. The stall did not receive much attention although ten people came to look at the display with some interest and one engaged in detailed discussion. Even so, three books were given and one copy of the Holy Qur’an to those who wished to engage in further study. The distributed books included Jesus in India and Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam both by the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) and World Crises And Pathway to Peace by Huzoor Aqdas. Three Ansar were involved. They are Messrs. A.Hafeez Mangat, M.Akram Shahid and Ayaz A Rathor. VILLAGE EXHIBITION IN ETWALL Majlis Ansarullah Burton held its 4th successful village exhibition on 14th April 2019 at the Frank Wickham Village Hall in Etwall. Preparations for the event had started some time ago with leafleting taking place 3 months earlier. Advertisements were featured at the local churches, the chip shop, library, leisure centre, schools, local businesses and the social media. The local council and the councillors in particular were encouraged to participate. A lot of effort was also made by attending functions held by the local community and through setting up tabligh stalls. In total 15 guests attended the event which included two Councillors, two representatives from charities, members from local churches and the local community. Samosas, biscuits, tea and coffee were served. The five people who assisted at the event included Messrs Syed Raheel Zakria, Tahir Ahmed , Shafiq Ahmed, Nasir Saud Ahmed, Syed Aamir Sikander and Dr Irfan Malik. TABLIGH STALL IN SUTTON ‐ By Muhammad Usama COFFEE MORNINGS IN NOTTINGHAM On Sunday 31st March members from the Sutton By Irfan Malik, Jama’at put up a tabligh stall in their local High The Nottingham Street from 11.30 am to 4 pm. Twenty visitors Ansar have stopped and took interest and discussions were started to hold held. In total 15 leaflets was given out along with 5 regular coffee books which included some in Arabic. In addition mornings at their contact was established with an Egyptian family. Baitul Hafeez Telephone numbers were exchanged and Mosque on the information on various Jama’at projects was given first Saturday of including MTA. Volunteers who put up the stall every month. On included, Messrs Hocine from Morocco, Tahir Shaafi Saturday 6th April they received four visitors who engaged from Egypt, Rana Mansoor Ahmad and Kamal Ziane in detailed discussions about Islam over coffee and Berroudja, Secretary Tabligh Sutton. refreshments. Ahmadiyya Bulletin • March/April 2019